Our team aims to establish the rationale behind why school should be more like camp, as well as detail practical steps that can be taken to make this happen. We plan to do this by analyzing both settings under the popularized educational model for youth empowerment—the Circle of Courage.
Analysis of these settings will culminate in a book—more importantly, a resource for educators and camps alike. This collection of stories will detail the life-changing experiences at camp and school.
Join us in our journey as we uncover a template for better schools, camps, and futures alongside the Circle of Courage.
The Circle of Courage is an educational framework created by three professors from Augustana University in Sioux Falls, South Dakota: Dr. Larry Brendtro, Dr. Martin Brokenleg, and Dr. Steve Van Bockern. It is comprised of four basic quadrants:
Belonging, Independence, Mastery, and Generosity.
When these four needs are met, students are more engaged and have better outcomes in educational settings. Since its conception, the Circle of Courage has been applied to schools, prison systems, workplaces, and more: improving the lives and educational experiences of all it impacted.
The Circle of Courage can be observed in action throughout every aspect of camp, whether its application is intentional or unintentional. Campers are in an environment where they can build mastery and find independence in a safe and secure setting. They feel like they belong because of the community that was initially intimidating to join but is often so hard to leave at the end of the week. They feel generous when their worldviews are broadened due to the perspectives and experiences that are shared between campers. Camp is a special place where The Circle of Courage flourishes; we believe that schools should be another.