Adolescents’ perceptions of an adventure-based programme
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Date
2010
Authors
Bosch, Ronel
Oswald, Marietjie
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Education, University of the Free State
Abstract
A qualitative study was undertaken to explore the perceptions of youth regarding their wilderness
rites of passage experience and its value for their lives. The researchers operated in an interpretive/
constructivist paradigm and employed a qualitative research methodology. Participants were
selected through purposive sampling, and individual interviews, documents, records, observations
and reflections were used to collect data. Data were analysed by means of content analysis. We
argue that participation in a wilderness rites of passage programme can contribute to the personal
growth and development of youth at risk of experiencing or manifesting emotional or behavioural
difficulties in schools. The research findings indicate that wilderness rites of passage programmes
can contribute significantly towards school support for young people. The findings also highlight
the fact that young people in the South African context are in need of caring school communities
and adult mentorship. Young people are in need of support, discipline and guidance, as well as
experiences of trust, love and care. School environments should change from being places of
disappointment to being places of safety and growth. Such a culture of care could possibly curb the
anger, resentment and distrust of the youth and support learners who are experiencing or mani
festing emotional or behavioural difficulties in schools.
Description
Keywords
Adolescents, Adult mentorship, Adventure based education, Caring school communities, Emotional and behavioural difficulties, Wilderness rites of passage
Citation
Bosch, R., & Oswald, M. (2010). Adolescents’ perceptions of an adventure-based programme. Perspectives in Education, 28(1), 64-76.