Michigan Experiential Network

Giving It All Away!

2010-09-08T22:36:00.004-04:00

Due to a career change and an inability to manage this site well - the MIEN site is up for grabs. I'm giving it all away to a person(s) who desires to see this field flourish in MI and needs an outlet for discussing important issues, events, and information pertinent to this field in MI.

If you are in the Experiential/Outdoor Education Field in Michigan and are interested in having an internet footprint for championing the field within the state then look no further.

Simply email your name, contact info, and reason you want the site to

mi.experiential@gmail.com

If a viable candidate is found the entire site will be handed over for free.

Proceedings From 2007 Adventure Therapy Best Practices Conference

2008-03-14T09:30:00.000-04:00

If you missed out on the 2007 Adventure Therapy Best Practices Conference hosted at the University of New Hampshire last June you can still glean practical information from the Conference Proceedings web page.

Visit The Proceedings Web Page to download keynote and workshop powerpoints and handouts.

For additional Adventure Therapy resources check out the Adventure Therapy & Wilderness/Nature Therapy page of Wilderdom.

AEE Michigan Experiential Networking Day

2008-03-13T14:13:00.002-04:00

7th Annual

Michigan Experiential Networking Day

April 11, 2008

hosted by

The Adventure Learning Center

Download Brochure

Attendance – $10.00
Lunch – $6.50 for Calypso Café (or bring your own)

For further information or to pre-register contact Donna Ooms at:
dooms@eaglevillage.org
231-832-7263
800-748-0061 x 263

Jim Cain comes to Michigan

2008-03-11T13:10:00.002-04:00

Join

Jim Cain

Author of
Teamwork and Teamplay
and other books

For a day of teambuilding activities
for those working with kids and adults

May 15th, 2008
At Little Pine Island Camp
8AM- 4PM
$60 Includes Continental Breakfast and lunch

Brochure Download

Brought to you by Little Pine Island Camp and Dave Vermilye of Edgeline Resources

Announcing the formation of the Professional Climbing Instructors’ Association

2008-01-18T12:54:00.000-05:00

January 13, 2008 - Press Release

The Professional Climbing Instructors' Association (PCIA) is a non-profit, member-based organization offering educational innovation and instructional choice for climbing instructors. The PCIA's mission is to provide technical and educational content to all levels of the instructional climbing community and to teach best practices that improve the safety, quality and delivery of technical climbing instruction.

The PCIA was established to specifically serve the needs of climbing instructors--those people who introduce thousands to the sport of climbing each year whether they are in a climbing gym or in a natural environment. The PCIA strives to help create great climbing educators--people who are capable climbers, technically proficient, and passionate about teaching climbing.

Educational programs are the nucleus of the PCIA and reflect the continuing evolution of climbing instructor education in the United States. The sequentially designed courses recognize the important differences and similarities that exist between climbing instruction that takes place on artificial structures, base managed, top managed and single pitch climbing sites.

By providing a consistent, standardized approach to entry level climbing instruction the PCIA seeks to improve the safety of climbing at all levels. Available in convenient 1-3 day teaching modules, the PCIA courses are well suited to various forms of climbing instruction. The current course line-up is as follows:

The PCIA Climbing Wall Instructor™ course serves the manufactured climbing wall community while the Base Managed Climbing Instructor™program reaches out to the climbing instructor working at the cliff bottom.

The one day Top Managed Climbing Instructor™ course emphasizes essential skills for managing climbs from the top of a cliff. When lead climbing is required to set up top rope climbs, the Single Pitch Climbing Instructor™ course teaches the skills required to then either run the site from the bottom, or mid-cliff. The curriculum of the PCIA Single Pitch Climbing Instructor course has never been offered to the American climbing instructor community until now. The course is a great bridge to more advanced guide training courses.

The PCIA offers a reciprocity option for those with other certifications and a seamless transition from other educational programs with minimal repetition of material. A certification challenge is available to practicing professionals possessing a wealth of experience and formal training. For those in need of credentialing we offer voluntary certification options and an Accreditation Program that is recognized by the National Park Service.

The PCIA, through the already well-established network of regional and national outdoor education conferences, will offer open clinics, workshops and continuing education programs designed around sharing technical ideas and innovations.

The 2008 roll out will focus on delivering the core set of courses and on building a solid instructor pool. The PCIA seeks the best of the best to serve in this group.

Visit www.pcia.us to join or to learn more - there are a wide range of membership levels starting at just $25! The PCIA welcomes your involvement.

Contact information

Email: info@pcia.us Phone: 207-461-3472

Article from OutdoorEd.com

Team Building Activity: Hole Tarp

2007-12-03T16:10:00.000-05:00

For email fed readers, video is viewable on blog.

"Euro Traffic Circle" - Activity Based Learning

2007-11-26T16:07:00.000-05:00

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T12:55:00.000-05:00

A clip from the original Charlie Brown Thanksgiving - 4:55 seconds.

WFR Training and Recertification by WMA

2007-11-16T22:55:00.000-05:00

WFR Course by WMA

Dec 13 - 21, 2007

Hosted by the Adventure Learning Center at Eagle Village, Hersey, MI

Wilderness First Responder (WFR) Eight-Day Course Outline & Syllabus

WFR Recertification by WMA

Dec 8-9, 2007

Hosted by the Adventure Learning Center at Eagle Village, Hersey, MI

Two-Day WFR Recertification Course Outline & Syllabus

Please contact Donna Ooms with any questions or to request information. She can be reached at:

800-748-0061 x263
dooms@eaglevillage.org

"Euro Traffic Circle" - Activity Based Learning

2007-11-16T16:03:00.000-05:00

(For Email Fed readers the video is viewable on MIEN)

Climbing Wall Association Releases Third Edition of Industry Practices: A Sourcebook for the Operation of Manufactured Climbing Walls

2007-11-14T02:09:00.000-05:00

Entire Article from OutdoorEd.com October 31, 2007 - Press Release
_____________________________________________________________________

The Climbing Wall Association, Inc. announced the release of the third edition of the Industry Practices:A Sourcebook for the Operation of Manufactured Climbing Walls.

The purpose of the Industry Practices is to raise awareness of standard climbing practices for those operating recreational climbing facilities throughout North America. The Industry Practices can assist climbing facilities in understanding, defining, and implementing a set of responsible management, training, and operational climbing practices at their climbing facilities.

The Industry Practices have been developed through a collaborative effort by members of the climbing wall industry over many years in an effort to provide a critical element of industry self-regulation and to defend against onerous and expensive external regulation. The current edition was revised by the CWA Operations Standards Committee in cooperation with CWA members, industry representatives, manufacturers, and other experts. Members of the public were invited to review and comment on the draft, an industry first for this successful publication.

According to Bill Zimmermann, Executive Director of the CWA, the third edition is a major revision of the previous edition. "The third edition of the Industry Practices was re-written from cover to cover and contains a great deal of useful material not included in previous editions." he said.

The Industry Practices is provided free of charge to current CWA members, and was shipped to its members last week. The Industry Practices is available to the public via the CWA web site here: http://www.climbingwallindustry.org/order.php. On-line ordering is now available.

About the Climbing Wall Association, Inc.

(CWA) is a 501(c)(06), non-profit, industry trade association incorporated in May of 2003. The CWA is the only trade association addressing the needs and interests of the climbing wall industry and climbing wall operators. The mission of the Climbing Wall Association is to support the development of the climbing wall industry, to promote the sport of climbing, and to advocate for the interests of our members.

An OutdoorEd Article

Thank You For Our Freedom!

2007-11-11T02:56:00.000-05:00

History of Veterans Day

Dr. Jim Cain's - "Pizza Toss"

2007-11-08T15:59:00.000-05:00

For more information go to http://teamworkandteamplay.com/

(For Email Fed readers the video is viewable on MIEN)

TemFrom - "Twelve Tips for Team Building: How to Build Successful Work Teams"

2007-11-05T00:54:00.000-05:00

From - "Twelve Tips for Team Building: How to Build Successful Work Teams"
By Susan M. Heathfield

In a team-oriented environment, you contribute to the overall success of the organization. You work with fellow members of the organization to produce these results. Even though you have a specific job function and you belong to a specific department, you are unified with other organization members to accomplish the overall objectives. The bigger picture drives your actions; your function exists to serve the bigger picture.

You need to differentiate this overall sense of teamwork from the task of developing an effective intact team that is formed to accomplish a specific goal. People confuse the two team building objectives. This is why so many team building seminars, meetings, retreats and activities are deemed failures by their participants. Leaders failed to define the team they wanted to build. Developing an overall sense of team work is different from building an effective, focused work team when you consider team building approaches.

Twelve Cs for Team Building
Successful team building, that creates effective, focused work teams, requires attention to each of the following.

Clear Expectations: Has executive leadership clearly communicated its expectations for the team’s performance and expected outcomes?
Context: Do team members understand why they are participating on the team?
Commitment: Do team members want to participate on the team? Do team members feel the team mission is important?
Competence: Does the team feel that it has the appropriate people participating?
Charter: Has the team taken its assigned area of responsibility and designed its own mission, vision and strategies to accomplish the mission.
Control: Does the team have enough freedom and empowerment to feel the ownership necessary to accomplish its charter?
Collaboration: Does the team understand team and group process?
Communication: Are team members clear about the priority of their tasks?
Creative Innovation: Is the organization really interested in change?
Consequences: Do team members feel responsible and accountable for team achievements?
Coordination: Are teams coordinated by a central leadership team that assists the groups to obtain what they need for success?
Cultural Change: Does the organization recognize that the team-based, collaborative, empowering, enabling organizational culture of the future is different than the traditional, hierarchical organization it may currently be?

Read Entire Article

Chris Cavert's - "As If" - Video

2007-11-02T15:55:00.000-04:00

For more information visit http://fundoing.com/

(For Email Fed readers the video is viewable on MIEN)

All Balls Variation

2007-11-02T15:49:00.000-04:00

Here is an interesting variation on the classic "All Balls" activity. Instead of just a line - build a wall with boxes or milk crates. Instead of balls - use paper.

Feeback Request

2007-10-26T15:31:00.000-04:00

In an effort to serve the MIEN community with greater effectiveness we are asking for some feedback. Please take a minute to fill out the form below so that we can tailor the MIEN content to meet your needs.

Thank you for your participation and feedback.

Camp Wiki

2007-10-12T16:02:00.000-04:00

Created one year ago Camp Wiki has been growing steadily. "A wiki is a medium which can be edited by anyone with access to it, and provides an easy method for linking from one page to another.

The site includes:

Games
Activities
Campfires
Crafts
Camp Owners
Other/Misc.
Community

...all of which are edited and updated by the public.

Viewing and downloading activities is easy
while uploading and contributing your own information
involves the added step of registration (no cost).

Check Out Camp Wiki

Columbus Inspired Resource

2007-10-08T18:13:00.000-04:00

Barnes and Noble $10.75 new
Amazon from $2.46 new and used

From Wheaties to telephones, microwave ovens to yo-yos, here are the inspiring and often funny stories of 50 mistakes and misunderstandings that helped bring about life as we know it.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly
In 2600 B.C., a dozing Egyptian slave created the first loaf of bread when the dough rose during his nap. According to Accidents May Happen: Fifty Inventions Discovered by Mistake, by Charlotte Foltz Jones, with black-and-white illustrations by John O'Brien, the world can thank some of history's lesser-known bunglers for peanut brittle, nitrous oxide and a raft of other indispensable inventions that continue to stand the test of time.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal
Grade 3-6?In this interesting and informative presentation, readers learn that scientific discoveries and inventions are not always the fruits of formal investigation. They are often the result of quirky and silly mishaps or misunderstandings. As in their book Mistakes That Worked (Doubleday, 1994), this author and illustrator team looks at "accidents" that had such fortuitous outcomes as ice-cream sodas, Worcestershire sauce, the yo-yo, cellophane, liquid paper, and dynamite. Jam-packed with stories, facts, and black-and-white cartoons, this is a well-conceived introduction to science that will pique the interest of young readers.?Pamela K. Bomboy, Chesterfield County Public Schools, VA
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Columbus Day: A Lesson in Leadership

2007-10-08T17:15:00.000-04:00

Be bold in the face of tradition.
Be courageous in the journey.
and
Be smart enough to turn your mistakes into successes.

One of the greatest mistakes in all of history became championed as one of the greatest successes in all of history. Nearly a 9,000 mile miscalculation went from 'Ooops' to 'Look at what I discovered.' And this in the face of people already living in the America's. It's all a matter of perspective and promotion. How can present mistakes be capitalized upon in your life? Your job? Your business?

Subscribe to the Network

2007-10-05T13:42:00.000-04:00

The Michigan Experiential Network offers a free and convenient service that emails network updates directly to your Inbox.

Subscribe in 3 Easy Steps

1. To sign up find this icon...

...located on the right sidebar and click on it.

2. The following page will load...

...enter your email address, select desired format, type spam code, and click Subscribe Me!

3. This will bring up a notification page that will tell you to open your email account in order to confirm your subscription. (Note: you may find the original confirmation email in your bulk mail because it is a new address to your account) Confirm your subscription and your all set.

Michigan Experiential Network updates
will now arrive in your email.

If you have any problems with this or have questions please leave us a comment.
We will be sure to assist.

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National Society for Experiential Education

2007-10-05T10:02:00.000-04:00

36^th Annual NSEE Conference

Threading the Needle: Precision in Experiential
Education Outcomes, Assessment & Promising Practices

Wednesday, October 31 – Friday, November 2, 2007

Sheraton Seattle Hotel * Seattle, WA

For more information Click Here

For a pdf brochure Click Here

Midwest Workshop on Outcomes Assessment in Experiential Learning

2007-10-05T09:48:00.000-04:00

Midwest Regional Workshop
Purdue University Calumet
2200 169th Street
Hammond, Indiana

October 19, 2007

Click here for details

2007 AEE International Conference, 35th Annual

2007-10-03T09:30:00.000-04:00

The 35th Annual International AEE Conference
November 8-10, 2007
Little Rock, Arkansas

Register now for the 2007 Annual International AEE Conference!
THE REGULAR REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS OCTOBER 19, 2007

Book your hotel room at the Peabody by October 7, 2007, to guarantee the special rate of $125/night, plus tax, single or double. Call +1-800-Peabody and let them know you are with AEE. (After the 7th, room rates go up!)

WE'VE ADDED A PRE-CONFERENCE!
Global Gateway at Heifer Ranch
Heifer International Facilitators
Leaves the hotel Tuesday, November 6, at 12:30 p.m. and returns November 7, at 3 p.m. This overnight workshop will take place at Heifer Ranch in Perryville, Arkansas. $65/transportation included.

And space is still available for many of the original pre-conference workshops!

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Minnijean Brown-Trickey

Minnijean Brown-Trickey is one of the nine students known as the Little Rock Nine, who, on September 25, 1957, integrated Central High School. This seminal event in American history sparked the beginning of Minnijean's career as a civil rights crusader.

Dr. Jasper Hunt

Jasper's many contributions to the field of experiential education include numerous published books and articles. The majority of his published works focus on ethics in experiential education. He currently teaches at Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Karl Rohnke

Karl is a leading "player" in the field of experiential education. He was one of the founders of Project Adventure and High 5 Adventure Learning Center, and has written more than 15 books that have taught countless others to facilitate meaningful play.

If you didn't receive a copy the conference brochure, or would like additional copies mailed to you or a friend, email us with the address to which you would like a copy sent. conferences@aee.org

Register on-line now

General conference information

SERVE & SAVE!
Volunteering for the Service Crew is a great way to contribute to the conference's success while reaping the benefit of a discounted registration fee. Get up to a 70% discount!!
Service Crew Application and information

QUESTIONS?

Contact the AEE Office M-F, 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. MDT at 866-522-8337,
conferences@aee.org.

Face Lift

2007-09-28T01:40:00.000-04:00

Outdoor Ed.com

2007-09-28T01:16:00.000-04:00

Outdoor Ed.com is a good thing that just continues to get better. In an effort to cultivate discussion and interaction within the field, Rick Curtis, founder of Outdoor Ed.com, has created Outdoor Ed Community. It is a networking platform with blogs, forums, and downloads. Blogs are written by professionals in the field (Prestin Cline, Jay Roberts, Tod Schimelpfenig, Nina Roberts, Brent Bell, and Rick Curtis himself) on their area of expertise while the forums cover an array of topics and serve as the new home of the former AEE list serve.

Check out the Outdoor Ed Community and enjoy the resources.

Michigan USGS Maps Online

2007-08-27T10:06:00.000-04:00

USGS Topographic Quadrangle Maps by County are available online through the Michigan DNR. This site allows you to view download pdf maps by selecting a county from the State map or list (average file size 3.1MB). This site can help keep your trip on track when you're short on time or simply want backups.

The way it works is as follows: (it will not function here. You must go to the site for functionality - Go Now)

1. The map below will appear first. Pick a county by clicking on the map or using the drop down menu on the page.

2. When a county is selected a map of that county will appear. For an example here is a portion of the Leelanau County quadrangle map that appears.

3. Finally, you would click on the desired quadrangle from this map to obtain the USGS map in the form of a pdf. It will ask if you'd like to open it or save it.

USGS Maps as pdf files online. Entirely free through the Michigan DNR

Small Is the New Big

2007-08-01T00:22:00.000-04:00

A growing number of businesses are discovering that getting big is not the best measure of accomplishment. Which are the ones setting the trend?

In April 17, 2000, Gary Erickson was about to fulfill the wildest hopes of any business entrepreneur. That morning he drove to the Berkeley office of Clif Bar, a company he'd founded eight years earlier, and got ready to sign papers selling it to food giant Quaker Oats for $120 million. Erickson would take home half that: a cool $60 million.

It was a remarkable rags-to-riches story for a guy who at age 33 was living in his parents' garage and making less than $10,000 a year when he envisioned a more wholesome energy snack. An avid outdoors enthusiast, he hit upon the idea on the last stretch of a one-day, 175-mile bike ride as he realized he couldn't stomach another bite of energy bars that tasted like cardboard. His initial investment was $1,000, and R&D was done in his mom's kitchen. He named the product for his dad. But rather than feeling on top of the world about this dream deal, Erickson was uneasy. "I stood in the office waiting to go out and sign the contract," he recounts in his book Raising the Bar. "Out of nowhere, I started to shake and couldn't breathe." He told his business partner that he needed to get some air. Outside in the parking lot, he broke down in tears. And then it hit him as he began to walk around the block: "I don't have to do this. "I began to laugh, feeling free," he writes. "I turned around, went back to the office and told my partner, 'Send them home. I can't sell the company.'"

Erickson stubbornly clung to the idea of guiding Clif Bar according to his own vision, not the business-as-usual paradigm of rapid expansion fueled by massive outside investment. "If we had sold to Quaker Oats, we would just be another bar on the shelf," Erickson explains, sitting at a small desk in his surprisingly modest office that looks out on the sidewalk where he made the fateful decision. "We would not have an environmental program; we would not have given $1.2 million last year to charity in money and products. We would not have gone organic. No one working here would even be here now."

Read the entire article
For Businesses, Small Is the New Big
By Jay Walljasper, Ode. Posted July 24, 2007.

Another great read is...

Small Is the New Big: and 183 Other Riffs, Rants, and Remarkable Business Ideas

by Seth Godin

New Network Forum

2007-06-23T10:04:00.000-04:00

Click on the Image

The Michigan Experiential Network Forum is up and running. Click on the image above or link in the sidebar to visit the forum and start a conversation.

Registration is required to post in order to avoid spam chaos.

Need help with registration? Click here.

Everest Road - Blacktop to Basecamp

2007-06-20T18:40:00.000-04:00

BEIJING -- China plans to build a highway on the side of Mount Everest to pave the way for the Olympic torch's journey to the peak of the world's tallest mountain.

In April, organizers of the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics announced ambitious plans for the longest torch relay in Olympic history -- a 137,000-kilometer, 130-day route that will cross five continents and scale Mount Everest.

The Xinhua news agency reported yesterday that construction of the road, budgeted at 150 million yuan ($19.7 million) would turn a 108-kilometer rough path from the foot of the 8,850-meter-tall mountain to a base camp at 5,200 meters "into a blacktop highway fenced by undulating guardrails."

Xinhua said construction of the road would start next week and would take about four months to complete.

An official from the Secretariat of the Tibetan government confirmed the project was planned, but declined to give details. Routes from Tibet and Nepal are the most commonly used to go up the mountain.

Read Entire Article

AEE Rocky Mountain Regional Conference Keynote Speech, April 7, 2006

2007-06-05T15:21:00.000-04:00

Experiential Education:

A Fragile and Incomplete Project

by Jay Roberts, Assistant Prof and Education Director of

Wilderness Programs at Earlham College

"The time is right for Experiential Education as a field to take a hard look at where we are and the future challenges and possibilities that lie before us. I believe our work in this field is both fragile and incomplete...

...and I hope to share with you both my concerns and my hopes for the field as we move forward...I am not cynical about the future. I have hope for our field and for the project of education in the United States. I believe now, perhaps more than ever, we need the values, beliefs, and ideals of experiential education for our children. But this hope is not a blind optimism. There are forces allied against such a vision of the future. There is much work to be done. So I have a hope without illusion and I would like to share this vision with you as we look toward the future of our schools, and our democracy."

Read Entire Speech

Author Interest

2007-05-23T11:50:00.000-04:00

Over the next several months the Michigan Experiential Network (MIEN) is looking to acquire several authors to regularly contribute to this site. It has been the MIEN's goal to provide a platform of connectivity through news, discussions, etc. and believe increased diversity in contribution will a tremendous benefit to all.

If you are interested in becoming a MIEN contributor

please email:

Name
Position
Employer
Interests within the Experiential Field
Most passionate Interest in the Experiential Field

...to mi_experiential@yahoo.com

Contributions are without compensation or copyright and remain open to the public at large with an intended purpose of mutual sharing and benefit via writing, discussion, and dialogue. For more information direct questions to the above email address.

We are looking forward to seeing the MIEN become a better resource for everyone.

Free Risk Management Workshop Online

2007-04-24T09:28:00.000-04:00

Rick Curtis of Princeton University's Outdoor Action Program and OutdoorEd.com has put together an online, 26m 12s power point presentation with personal audio on The Risk Assessment and Safety Management (RASM) Model © that he developed. An incredible resource at no cost.

To begin presentation click RUN
(note presentation requires Flash and may take a moment to buffer)
To read more about the presentation go to Outdoor Ed.com

The Risk Assessment and Safety Management Model developed by Rick Curtis of Princeton University's Outdoor Action Program and OutdoorEd.com is an incredibly useful tool for programs to use as part of your overall risk management plan. From program planning by managers in the office to a decision-making tool for instructors in the field, the RASM model is a real-time planning tool that expands on previous accident models to include safety factors. This 30 minute Powerpoint Presentation is based on a workshop that Rick has presented around the country and is excellent tool to use in staff trainings. Play the Powerpoint Presentation (Flash Required)... You can also download the accompanying PDF article

"What's it like to facilitate at your very best?"

2007-04-19T08:21:00.000-04:00

The following is an excerpt from The Facilitators' Stories by Stuart Wickes.

What's it like to facilitate at your very best?:

An inquiry into facilitators' peak experiences of facilitating.

“I wanted to understand and articulate just what facilitation involved and meant to these facilitators, what it is was like for them to facilitate, and how they experienced it when they were doing it at their best.

“This was a piece of phenomenological research designed to understand the subjective experiences of these eight individuals and to articulate the essence of those experiences and structures of meaning associated with them. It was not research into the how-to, process, organizational aspects or outcomes of facilitation, nor an inquiry into who the facilitators were, their backgrounds, skills or experience. It was a search for understanding of what it is like to facilitate, a search to understand and describe the experience of excellence in facilitation 'in the moment', from the facilitators perspective.

“This short paper presents a few key findings from this research. Firstly I present some very short illustrative extracts from participants stories of excellence in facilitation. Then I offer a model outlining five recurring themes in their stories; features of their experience of excellence.

cycle of experience
co-created climate of development
connection, relationship and rapport
particular internal experience
realizing something of value

Finally I offer some practical suggestions for facilitators, providers and users of facilitators interested in creating excellence in facilitation.

“One of my primary aims in research was to tell the facilitator's story, to bring the voice of practicing facilitators to the literature on facilitation. Participants were asked to describe in detail experiences of their very best work. I asked them to re-associate with and relive these experiences, to describe from within "exactly what it is like to be facilitating at this time"

“Think of this paper as less of an answer and more of a stimulus for your own curiosity and questions.”

For complete pdf article download (12 pages) http://reviewing.co.uk/download/facilitators-stories.pdf

UM CHALLENGE PROGRAM - OPEN HOUSE!

2007-04-06T13:24:00.000-04:00

CHALLENGE PROGRAM - OPEN HOUSE!

May 18th 11:30-1:30 and 3:30-6:30

We provide interactive teambuilding programs with facilitated opportunities for discussion. If you’re interested, but want to learn more about what we offer before scheduling your group, then join us at our Open House!

Come learn about the University of Michigan’s experiential team-building program. Meet the directors, tour our facilities, and familiarize yourself with our activities and programming. Maybe you’ll even get to try an activity or two!

For more information go to...

UM Challenge Program Website http://www.recsports.umich.edu/challenge/

Direction and Maps http://www.recsports.umich.edu/challenge/openhouse07.doc

Baltimore Teen Drowns During School Backpacking Trip

2007-04-05T10:48:00.000-04:00

Kenneth, 17, and seven other students from Independence School Local 1 in Hampden - an alternative public school for students who have struggled in traditional classrooms - left Baltimore on Tuesday morning. That night, they slept under tents pitched deep in the Monongahela National Forest in Elkins, W.Va.

The next day, as other students stood by, Jones jumped into a frigid pool at the base of a waterfall, said a West Virginia State Police investigator. Amid the rough currents, the 10th-grader went under and drowned.The death has prompted an internal investigation by the city school system, and at least one member of the City Council said he is considering hearings.

"He entered [the water] on his own accord," Teter said of the teen. The officer said it did not appear that Jones was knocked unconscious in the water. He said that other students were in the immediate area and that teachers were nearby."

There are strong undercurrents from the waterfall. That is a contributing factor," he said.He said that the campsite, near a place called Spruce Knob, is about eight miles from any dirt road and 15 miles from a paved highway.

After receiving an emergency call from a teacher with a satellite phone about 5 p.m., rescue workers got to the scene in two hours. Teter said he hiked two to three miles with heavy gear to find the campsite.

Forty-five students attend the school, which is technically an extension of the Samuel L. Banks High School. The camping trip is part of the school's alternative curriculum designed to empower students who struggle in traditional academic settings.

Kenneth enrolled in the school last year after he was expelled from Benjamin Franklin Middle School for being involved in a fight, his father said."He didn't want to deal with thugs," Jones said. "I stayed on him about being straight."

"He was great," said Jones, the father. "[On] a scale of 1 to 10, he was a 13."

For complete story go to http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/baltimore_city/bal-te.ci.drown31mar31,0,3392108.story?page=1&coll=bal-local-headlines

Developing Best Practices in Backcountry Swimming

2007-04-05T08:59:00.000-04:00

Contributed by Todd Miner
In the AEE Northeast & Mid-Adlantic newsletter, Mid-Atlantic Currents
Volume 4, Issue 3 Page 3, December 2006

Swimming in remote locations has traditionally been a part of adventure programming. The benefits of backcountry swimming are recognized and celebrated and should be preserved. However, it is also one of the more dangerous activities that occur in a backcountry program. Over the last 10 years a number of fatalities and serious accidents (paralysis, brain damage, etc.) have occurred during backcountry swimming taking place in organized programs. Better trainings, practices and policies need to be developed to ensure backcountry swimming can continue. National organizations such as Red Cross have backed away from developing such tools, leaving it to the adventure education field to step up and improve safety and programming for our participants. There is a large and significant gap that begs to be filled.

To address this gap, several programs (Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Eastern Washington University, Hamilton College, Harvard University, Princeton University, Sterling College and VisionQuest) have joined together with invited representation from Outward Bound and the National Outdoor Leadership School. The working title of this group has yet to be decided. Consideration is between the Committee Reviewing Adventure-Based Backcountry Swimming (CRABS) or the Committee on Backcountry Swimming (COBS). The goal of this committee is to enhance the safety of backcountry swimming through education and sharing of best practices.

Many adventure programs have developed strong trainings, practices, protocols, or standards to address the risks of backcountry swimming, but there is no one place where best practices or standards have been brought together. With this in mind, the committee will try to gather, identify and disseminate best practices.

The committee considers "backcountry swimming" to mean "putting people in water that is not a pool or a designated, lifeguard-protected swim area outdoors." Backcountry swimming would include lakes, rivers, streams, the ocean, hot springs, and would not be defined by proximity to roads, type of shore, etc. “Incidental” relates to the spontaneous nature and is secondary to the expected objectives of the planned activity such as hiking.

In trying to gather and disseminate best practices for backcountry swimming the committee operates using the following values, goals and principles:

There is value in backcountry swimming.
The process and effort will be as inclusive as possible. We seek partners and insights from any and all adventure programs and/or organizations focused on risk management and safety.
The results will be freely and openly shared.
The main focus is on incidental or purposeful wading or swimming (as opposed to accidental swimming related to boating or stream crossing).
The general goal is to promote backcountry swimming that is as safe as possible.
The preferred method for enhancing backcountry swimming safety is through sharing and educating.
That enhancing safety should not have to mean adding a lot of training time or cost.
That priority is placed on common sense, lowtech ways to make swimming safer.
That raising the swimmer's consciousness is imperative.

The committee requests input from other organizations. We seek protocols, practices and accident data that you are willing to share. This will allow the committee to examine how accidents and injuries are occurring and what risk management measures could be instituted to prevent further loss. Please forward information to Dennis Call, dennis.call@vq.com

Job Posting: Teacher/Facilitator

2007-04-04T12:12:00.000-04:00

Montcalm Outdoor Challenge Program

Job Posting: Teacher/Facilitator

Description
Starr Commonwealth seeks a highly qualified teacher to provide leadership in the academic activities for the students enrolled in the Montcalm Outdoor Challenge Program located in Albion, MI. As part of the treatment team, the teacher will provide academic instruction, tutoring, evaluations, and a variety of learning experiences in a non-traditional setting. Applicants must exhibit a strong commitment to a personal value system of helping kids. They must be creative in using a variety of teaching styles and activities to engage the students in active learning experiences. The ideal candidate will have the ability to manage unexpected situations and demonstrate exceptional problem solving skills.

The Montcalm Outdoor Challenge Program, located on the Starr Commonwealth campus, is a 60 day outdoor therapeutic experience for children ages 12-17. For more information on the Montcalm Outdoor Challenge Program and other Starr Commonwealth programs and services, visit the website http://www.starr.org/.

Responsibilities
This position is primarily responsible for coordination of all academic activities for students enrolled in the Montcalm Outdoor Challenge program. This includes providing individual instruction to each student by first assessing their current academic needs and then using appropriate teaching styles to meet those needs. Communicate student progress to parents of children in the program. Manage the necessary academic paperwork and reporting needs of the program.

Desired Qualifications
§ Bachelor's degree in Education with preference to Secondary Education, Middle Grades certification, or Outdoor Education
§ Current teacher certification
§ Curriculum design experience
§ Familiar with individual instruction methods and experience with non-traditional educational settings
§ First Aid and CPR certification
§ Experience in facilitating experiential outdoor activities

Benefits Starr Commonwealth provides a competitive salary within the youth services industry along with a desirable benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance, retirement, and tuition reimbursement. All Starr Commonwealth employees have free access to the Towsley Center for Recreation which houses an Olympic size pool, basketball courts, fitness center, and racquetball courts.
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To apply for either position, please send cover letter and resume to:

Starr Commonwealth: Michigan
Attn: Dennis Eddy, Recruitment Coordinator
13725 Starr Commonwealth Road
Albion, MI 49224
E-mail: eddyd@starr.org
Fax: 517-629-7775
Phone: (800) 837-5591 ext. 459
Download application: www.starr.org

Starr Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Job Posting: Program Guide/Outdoor Specialist

2007-04-04T12:06:00.000-04:00

Montcalm Outdoor Challenge Program

Job Posting: Program Guide/Outdoor Specialist

Description
Starr Commonwealth seeks a highly qualified outdoor specialist to provide leadership in facilitation of adventure-based activities for the students enrolled in the Montcalm Outdoor Challenge Program located in Albion, MI. As part of the treatment team, the outdoor specialist will travel on each wilderness trek to ensure the safety for the kids, facilitate outdoor learning opportunities, and assist with trip logistics. The outdoor specialist’s schedule will be five work days on for trips and then nine days off until preparing for the next trip, as well as, additional group coverage when needed.

Applicants must exhibit a strong commitment to a personal value system of helping kids. The outdoor specialist must be comfortable outdoors in all weather conditions and know how to safely prepare the youth in the program for the weather conditions. The ideal candidate will have the ability to manage unexpected situations and demonstrate exceptional problem solving skills.

The Montcalm Outdoor Challenge Program, located on the Starr Commonwealth campus, is a 60-day; fixed-base outdoor therapeutic experience for children ages 12-17. For more information on the Montcalm Outdoor Challenge Program and other Starr Commonwealth programs and services, visit the website http://www.starr.org/.

Responsibilities
This position is primarily responsible for care and supervision of the youth in the program while away from the fixed-base camp on wilderness trips. The outdoor specialist will facilitate a variety of adventure based activities while guiding the youth through multi-day wilderness experiences. Completes all paperwork in a timely and accurate manner and conducts all program activities in a safe and therapeutically efficient manner.

Desired Qualifications
§ Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Physical Education, Criminal Justice, Sociology, or related area
§ Ability to build positive relationships with youth and staff
§ Valid drivers license
§ Experience with multi-day wilderness trips with youth
§ First Aid and CPR certification and Lifeguard certified
§ Experience in facilitating experiential outdoor activities

Benefits Starr Commonwealth provides a competitive salary within the youth services industry along with a desirable benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance, retirement, and tuition reimbursement. All Starr Commonwealth employees have free access to the Towsley Center for Recreation which houses an Olympic size pool, basketball courts, fitness center, and racquetball courts.
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To apply please send cover letter and resume to:

Starr Commonwealth: Michigan
Attn: Dennis Eddy, Recruitment Coordinator
13725 Starr Commonwealth Road
Albion, MI 49224
E-mail: eddyd@starr.org
Fax: 517-629-7775
Phone: (800) 837-5591 ext. 459
Download application: www.starr.org

Starr Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer

WFR Training

2007-04-04T10:59:00.000-04:00

Wilderness First Responder

May 17-25, 2007

Location: Shelby, MI - AYF's Miniwanca
Cost: $775 with housing and meals included

For further information and/or registration contact:
Katie Hodgdon
(231) 861-2262 ext 1112
katie.hodgdon@ayf.com

For WFR Course description visit - http://www.soloschools.com/wfr.html

Miniwanca

Is Research for Everyone?

2007-03-29T07:37:00.000-04:00

Who Me? Do Research?
Yes, you can do research. Believe it or not. The only real requirement is being able to find a question you want answered. This is by far the hardest part in research and most people don't progress beyond this point.*

Support & Mentoring
Especially when starting out, having the support or mentorship of a knowledgeable person makes for greater learning and better quality research. Hook up if you can with someone who has had previous research experience, possibly through a university or other organization. Share ideas regularly, and get the person's critical feedback on your ideas and research as it progresses. Research is not really research unless its subject to peer review and public scrutiny, and so its important that your work is supported from an early stage by someone who can help to guide your efforts.*

Research is Not for Everyone
But evaluation is. No matter where someone finds themsleves in our field simple measures can be taken to begin beneficial evaluation of his/her programs. Moreover, good documentation of the evaluations prove invaluable to researchers in our field. Thus, if one is not a researcher (s)he can be an advocate for it by evaluating, documenting, and making your data known about and available to researchers.

Read Evaluation: A begining for more information on evaluation.

Visit Research Methods for Studying Psycho-Social Change Programs for useful tools, aids, information, and direction in research.
*Excerpts from Wilderdom.

2007 Heartland Regional Conference

2007-03-26T12:27:00.000-04:00

The Heartland Regional Council of AEE invites you to…

Register Now!

For the AEE 2007 Heartland Region Conference

“Back to the Fundamentals”

Friday, March 30th, 2007 through Sunday, April 1st, 2007*

Located at Camp Manitoqua, Frankfort, Illinios.

Go to http://www.aee-heartland.org/ for further details and toregister online.

Internet Edition of Raccoon Circles

2007-02-19T17:30:00.000-05:00

Click on Picture to View PDF Book

The official Internet Edition of Raccoon Circles by Jim Cain is available as a PDF file for viewing and download.

This internet version contains excerpts from the newly revised Book of Raccoon Circles by Dr. Tom Smith and Dr. Jim Cain, with more than 200 activities, challenges and ideas.

This document is in PDF format and is 7.5 MB large. If you have trouble viewing the PDF click here and follow the instructions (located on the right side of screen) to save the file to your computer for easier viewing.

For further information visit http://www.teamworkandteamplay.com/ and click on download articles, activities, and information.

Interesting Question

2007-02-19T11:48:00.000-05:00

"Consider whether activities from which participants learn the most are necessarily those that puch them out of their 'comfort zone?'"

This question was posed by Andrew Martin as a result of his case study on Outward Bound. It is a question that experiential practitioners have discussed in school, in conference workshops, at networking days, and on-line. Yet, what I have not seen thus far is an individual or organization with statistical weight behind their opinions and theories.

Research does not have to be and should not only be focused on whether or not experiential education is effective. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of nuances within our field that deserve further study. The more we critique and analyze our own field the less others will be able to. Begin thinking about what questions you'd like to find answers to. Better yet, start the search.

Changing Schools through Experiential

2007-02-14T00:02:00.000-05:00

A 1992 article discussing the, “efforts to restructure schools…with a curriculum that young people find significant. This Digest describes how experiential education can help provide such a curriculum and the impact it can have on students, teachers, administrators, and school organizational structures. It also describes ways experiential education can help educators make the transition from a traditional program to an activity-based program requiring the collaboration of teachers and students.”

"Experiential education can change schools because it requires new roles of students, teachers, and administrators. It can provide a different, more engaging way of treating academic content through the combination of action and reflection. Experiential education can also provide a process for helping all those involved in schooling become more comfortable with the unfamiliar roles commonly proposed for restructured schools."

Article Link - http://www.ericdigests.org/1992-3/changing.htm

Evaluation: A beginning

2007-02-12T10:01:00.000-05:00

"Research is a type of inquiry that uses systematic methods and rigorous procedures derived from scientific knowledge and logical thinking to "prove" whether a practice is effective in generalized situations. For example, a study that examines how trust is consistently developed in most groups across many programs would be a form of research.

Evaluation is another type of inquiry that uses similar research-related skills to "improve" practice effectiveness in a specific situation. For example, a study that examines whether trust actually develops in a single group in one program would be a form of evaluation.

Generalizability is the degree to which research or evaluation findings from a study can be applied to other situations that were not studied. Generalizability is the principal difference between these two types of inquiry. Research seeks a higher amount of generalizability than evaluation and so has stringent requirements about selecting or controlling subjects, treatments, variables, and measurements within a study. Again, fear of research and its precise requirements for generalization unfortunately prevents many practitioners from conducting evaluations.

From: A Program Evaluation Primer by Simon Priest

Evaluation - A Road to Research
Whether or not you ever do a single research study you can (and should) be performing evaluations of your services and programs. Evaluations themselves serve as an important aid in the process of delivering effective programming and are easily implemented into existing program structures. Moreover, with a few simple steps your personal refinement towards greater effectiveness through evaluations could be a beginning for future research. Here's how...

Conduct evaluations
Log and document you evaluations, their findings, and changes made based on them
Compiled evaluation data can be used in research studies - both personal studies and/or external researchers in need of data (ie. Grad students are always looking for data. Contacting college programs to inform them of the data you have available could significantly benefit a research project and subsequently our field.)

The Vision - Revisited

2007-02-07T19:35:00.000-05:00

The Michigan Experiential Network exists to connect experiential programs and organizations in the state of Michigan and empower the field as a whole toward increased applicability, sustaining purpose, and greater effectiveness.

To date, twenty organizations have asked to be included in the network. A special thanks to all of you for taking this step toward centralized communications across the state. The Michigan Experiential Networks quick start up and positive response to has warranted its continuation and further growth.

When the Michigan Experiential Network was created the vision was to have a link on the network for every Michigan based program, company, or organization involved in the experiential field. The problem is that the network will not link a program, company, or organization unless they ask to be linked. The network needs those who know about the network to tell those who don't know about the network.

What you can do to help grow the network...

Share the network with others. Doesn't matter how you do it. People won't use what they don't know exists.

Use the network. Post conferences, training, jobs. Start discussions under any posting by using the comments feature.

Network.

Michigan Job Posting - Still Searching

2007-02-07T05:00:00.000-05:00

Position Title: Facilitator Trainer/Trip Leader
Company Name: Adventure Learning Center at Eagle Village

Location(s): Hersey, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Full-Time
Job Duration: Indefinite

Min Education: BA/BS/Undergraduate
Min Experience: 2-3 Years

For More Information Go To
Job Listings - AEE Link
http://jobsclearinghouse.aee.org/c/job.cfm?site_id=619&jb=1084438

Job Listings - Outdoor Ed Link
http://www.outdoored.com/Jobs/oe/DetailsID.aspx?JobID=2723

Eagle Village Jobs
http://eaglevillage.org/evjobs.html

APPLY FOR THIS JOB
Contact Person: Tamara McLeod
Email Address: tjmcleod@eaglevillage.org
Phone: 231-832-7321
Fax: 231-832-1468

No endoresment is given or implied to any companies on this site.

Michigan Job Posting - Still Searching

2007-02-07T04:52:00.000-05:00

Position Title: Facilitator
Company Name: Adventure Learning Center at Eagle Village

Location(s): Hersey, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Part-Time
Job Duration: Indefinite

Min Education: H.S. Diploma/Equivalent
Min Experience: 0-1 Year
Entry Level: Yes

For More Information Go To
Job Listings - AEE Link
http://jobsclearinghouse.aee.org/c/job.cfm?site_id=619&jb=1084436

Job Listings - Outdoor Ed Link
http://www.outdoored.com/Jobs/oe/DetailsID.aspx?JobID=2724

Eagle Village Jobs
http://eaglevillage.org/evjobs.html

APPLY FOR THIS JOB
Contact Person: Tamara McLeod
Email Address: tjmcleod@eaglevillage.org
Phone: 231-832-7321
Fax: 231-832-1468

No endoresment is given or implied to any companies on this site.

Team Building Ice Breaker Activity

2007-02-02T02:30:00.000-05:00

Mumbly Jumbly

Blindfold all participants
Give each participant a number ranging from minus one thousand to plus one thousand that only they know
Jumble up the group
participants must locate each other and communicate their number to each other in order to arrange them selves in sequence while remaining blindfolded

Courtesy Wild Events, UK

A Relationship of Words - Part Three

2007-01-29T01:09:00.000-05:00

credibility.

research.

Are you pursuing one?

One of these words is an answer.

Have you begun?

Article Link - http://www.acacamps.org/media_center/reprint/research_matters.doc

Directions: Youth Development Outcomes of the Camp Experience A four page synopsis of the 25-page summary report by Philliber Research Associates & American Camp Association (2005) detailing a 3-year study (2001-2003) of the developmental effects in over 80 USA summer camps. The study examined the claims that camps provide positive developmental experiences for young people.

Excerpt - "Our research demonstrates unequivocally that with the idea behind camp and the thousands of individuals who support children in these experiences, we are unmistakably on the right track. One of the truly exciting aspects of this research is these measurable gains continue after camp ends, and the researchers confirm that length of camp session isn’t a determining factor—it’s camp itself,” says Smith."

"Leadership, adventure, making friends, confidence
—all after spending time at camp."

Think Series - 1.3

A Relationship of Words - Part Two

2007-01-26T23:50:00.000-05:00

research.

credibility.

Are we in need of one and not the other?

Can we get one without the other?

What is your relationship to them?

Aticle Link - http://www.ericdigests.org/1995-2/improving.htm

Improving Evaluation in Experiential Education
A 1994 article discussing the need for research that brings credibility to our field of experiential education. The article explores the relationships between practitioners and researchers and describes where improvements can be made. Closing with the assertion that, “There is much to do and much room for improvement.”

Think Series - 1.2

A Relationship of Words - Part One

2007-01-24T23:36:00.000-05:00

credibility.

research.

Look at these two words.

Think about them.

How are they linked?

Article Link - http://www.joe.org/joe/1996december/rb1.html

The Influence of Experiential Instruction on Urban Elementary Students' Knowledge of the Food and Fiber System

A 1993 study of 5th and 6th graders in a 10-week instructional science course focused on agriculture. The outcome, “Based on this research, Extension professionals should assist teachers in introducing experiential activities into their science curriculum.”

Think Series - 1.1

Basic Facilitator Training

2007-01-23T10:06:00.000-05:00

Edgeline Resources
Basic Facilitator Training
Feb 5-9, 2007

What is the purpose?
To provide an introduction to the foundations of experiential learning and its applications.

Cost:
$500 Per person, includes lunch for the week

($200 off if you found it on the Michigan Experiential Network)

Location:

Watson Glen Experiential Training Center

4043 Byron Center Road

Wyoming Michigan, 49519

Who should attend?

□ Trainers
□ Teachers
□ Youth leaders
□ Professionals
□ Camp counselors
□ Anyone wanting to utilize experiential education

What will be taught?
□ Practical skills of leadership
□ Physical & emotional safety for group development
□ Evaluation of group dynamics
□ Skills that will enhance your ability to teach

What will the format be?
A five day workshop incorporating…
□ Experiential learning (You do the course!)
□ Immediate feedback on your skills
□ Experiential lectures
□ Formal and Informal discussions
□ Relaxed retreat atmosphere

Outline of Training
Day 1: A day of personal experience on the challenge course that will actively engage you in the team-building process.

Day 2: A day covering the theoretical perspectives, foundations and philosophy of Experiential Learning. Participants will be challenged to reflect on their experiences from the previous day as these concepts are presented.

Days 3-5: Three days in which participants will engage in developing their personal leadership and facilitation skills. Topics will include:
Sequencing the experiential program
Briefing and implementing the group experience
Processing the experience

Edgeline instructors:
Dave Vermilye and Mark Douglass will provide this training. These top-notch facilitators have over three decades of experiential facilitation between them and have conducted challenge course facilitator trainings for over ten years

For Registration Information:

Call Dave Vermilye at 616-538-7492 x43

No endoresment is given or implied to any companies on this site.

2007-01-22T09:35:00.000-05:00

The ‘Whatever’ Annual

Guinea Pig Workshop 2007
Friday – March 2, 2007
8:30 to 3:00 CST
United Way Conference Center
Valparaiso, IN 46385

Cost - $35

“I have attended several workshops presented by...Dan Massa and his team from Porter County…attending one of his workshops is a special opportunity…[that] has shaped my teaching style and content of presentations in effective and creative ways.” ~Former Michigan Attendee

What Is It?
A day of all new social skill building/classroom based activities to facilitate cooperative work and build leadership skills while helping eliminate bullying behaviors

Who is this for?
Regular/Special & Alternative Ed teachers - 4th to 12th grade
Counselors, coaches, team leaders, class sponsors
Teacher assistants and para professionals

Where Can You Use This?
Classrooms
Advisory periods
Club and Team gatherings
Professional development/staff workshops

Includes…
§ A 40+ page bound booklet of activities
§ Morning coffee & rolls/a non-vegetarian lunch

Attendance limited to 60 participants, to reserve a spot…
Call Porter County Educational Services
(219) 464-9607 ext. 334
Dan Massa – Porter County Challenge Education Coordinator

Brought to you by: Porter County Educational Services/Portage Twp. Schools & Valparaiso Parks with Dan Massa and friends who bring you over 16 years in field experience at local, state, regional and national level – with over 1,000 workshops and groups.

No endoresment is given or implied to any companies on this site.

Carpool to the Annual Guinea Pig Workshop 2007.

2007-01-22T09:09:00.000-05:00

For a ride to the Annual Cuinea Pig workshop listed above.

Reply if interested or have questions.

Herbert Lindsay
Physical Education Specialist
Experiential / Challenge Education Specialist
Fremont Public Schools, Fremont, Michigan 49412
231.924.8288 (O/voice mail)
231.924-9117 (FAX)
helindsay@fremont.net

No endoresment is given or implied to any companies on this site.

Twinject two-dose Epinephrine Autoinjector

2007-01-11T08:51:00.000-05:00

The Only Available Auto-injector With 2 Doses in 1 Device

Twinject: The confidence of knowing a second dose is always there
Unique 2-in-1 device eliminates the need for 2 single-dose injectors
Auto-injector enables rapid delivery of epinephrine
Prefilled syringe provides manual delivery of second dose
Available in 2 weight-appropriate doses: 0.3 mg and 0.15 mg
Clear window indicator confirms viability of medication

Twinject: The convenience of 1 lightweight device
Slim, crush-resistant case protects Twinject in handbags, backpacks, and travel kits; includes metal pocket clip for added security
Thin, 25-gauge needle
Permanently attached WrapLabel? ensures that step-by-step instructions are immediately available to patients or caregivers anywhere, anytime

For more information on Twinject and Anaphylaxis including online videos showing how to administer Twinject go to the Twinject Web site at www.twinject.com

Twinject Review

2007-01-11T08:01:00.000-05:00

From Rick Curtis at Outdoor Ed.com
According to medical students 35% of patients may experience anaphylactic reactions requiring more than 1 dose of epinephrine. In the past the only product available has been the Epi-pen manufactured by Dey Pharmacuetical. The Dey Product is a one-dose unit which means that a second unit would need to be available to give a second dose.

The Twinject product is a unique departure from the Epi-pen in that it has two doses in each injector. The first dose is given with an autoinjecting needle similar to the Epi-pen. Removal of a cap allows for a second dose to be administered manuallt. Since 36% of patients who end up receiving epinephrine for anaphylaxis require a second dose the Twinject offers significant advantages over the Epi-pen. The Twinject is available in both adult (0.3 mg Epinephrine) and child (0.15 mg Epinephrine) units. With a retail cost comparable to Epi-pen. Programs who carry multiple doses will see considerable cost savings for first aid kit purchases.

For the entire article go to http://outdoored.com/anm/templates/template1.aspx?articleid=1979&zoneid=16

Leadership Training - 10 Tips for Programme Design

2007-01-11T07:52:00.000-05:00

One of the main challenges in designing leadership training courses (especially short ones) is to create enough opportunities for each individual to have several turns as leader. Courses for developing teamwork skills are more straightforward because participants are always part of the team, but on leadership courses each individual only experiences leadership when it is their turn to be leader. And on short courses, participants may only have one experience of leadership.

• So what can be done to increase the proportion of the time in which each individual is a leader?

• And what can be done to increase the number of times that each individual can experience leadership within a course?

Instead of designing a programme in a way that provides just one opportunity per person for leading a team...design a programme of the same duration that will provide at least three leadership experiences per person.

For entire article go to
http://reviewing.co.uk/articles/leadership-training.htm

Excerpts from 10 Tips for Programme Design, Programme Design for Leadership Training - Maximising Leadership Opportunities on Leadership Training Programmes by Roger Greenaway, Reviewing Skills Training.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-04T20:23:00.000-05:00

Welcome to 2007 and the endless possibilities before us.

What ever it is you desired to do last year but failed to accomplish begin now. Make preparations and plans to finish it (them) this year. Resolve to see it through and move to new challenges and dreams.

Complacency is the opposition of great things.

Have a Happy New Year!

2006-12-29T23:27:00.000-05:00

A perspective worth pursuing.

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-25T00:10:00.000-05:00

Find New Challenges

2006-12-05T11:09:00.000-05:00

"There are virtually no undiscovered places left to find, no unclaimed mountains to scale, no new rivers left to cross. It seems there may be no challenges left to face. Yet every now and again we find someone who has noticed a new challenge hitherto untaught of..."

~Frederick Forsyth

In 1998, Karl Bushby, a 36 year old ex-paratrooper flew to the southern tip of South America and began the Goliath Expedition - a solo trek around the world crossing four continents, 25 countries, a frozen sea, six deserts and seven mountain ranges. Walking over 36,000 miles in the single, longest continuous expedition on foot and forging the longest unbroken path in human history. Here is his path...

We need this mentality in the field of experiential education. The 'thinking outside the box' mentality to go beyond what seems to be conquered and established already to find new challenges. Innovation that keeps are field advancing and new. Dare to dream outside of the lines...

To read more on Karl Bushby's adventure click here Goliath Expedition.

Ongoing Discussion

2006-11-29T13:01:00.000-05:00

Read, share, ask, answer.

Click on the post date or comments below to join the conversation.

Improving Evaluation in Experiential Education - How Far Have We Come?

2006-11-26T15:38:00.000-05:00

"Although experiential education is really the oldest approach to learning, its practitioners have not had an easy time justifying its relevance in the educational world of the twentieth century...skepticism persists outside the field."

"Recent changes in the methodologies of evaluation, however, have provided useful tools for experiential educators. Such tools can be used to refine programming, enhance student learning, and perhaps improve the credibility of the field--important when organizations compete for limited funding..."

~Bruce Hendricks

Improving Evaluation in Experiential Education by Bruce Hendricks was published over a decade ago (1994), yet, the same hurdle remains before us. How much have we done in the past decade to overcome the lack of credibility.

A central topic of discussion for years at experiential education conferences, the need for more research has been recognized, presented on, and championed throughout our field. Still, many neglect research in their own programs. Reasons vary from lack of know-how, to lack of funding, to a belief that research is for the 'researchers,' to any number of additional crutches. I pose these are all weak reasons for opting out of research.

Lack of know-how - become educated. Study what's out there and integrate your learning.
Lack of funding - myth. Research dose not have to be a high priced scholarly work that becomes published. One can begin by tracking information and compiling data on your own with very low costs. Learn about critical areas to track that can make a difference. In time you may find that someone is will to analyze your data for free as part of their own study (many of these options exist already).
It's for the 'researchers' - label bias. The title becomes affixed to someone when they begin researching and not vice versa. Begin researching your own programs today and affix the label to yourself.
Additional crutches - similar stories...

Discussion has ensued for over a decade and the lack of research continues to plague our field. We aren't in need of more awareness we are in need of players. What actions are you taking?

Zoom – Teambuilding Activity

2006-11-17T10:21:00.000-05:00

Summary (courtesy of Wilderdom)
A group tries to create a unified story from a set of sequential pictures. The pictures are randomly ordered and handed out. Each person has a picture but cannot show it to others. Requires patience, communication, and perspective taking in order to recreate the story's sequence.

Purchase as a ‘teambuilding kit’ for $70
Includes: laminated pages from the picture books; activity guide; facilitation notes.

Do it yourself:

Buy the actual book new for $11.55 or used for $6.99 at Amazon or other source (may need two for completion)
Cut out and laminate (optional) pages yourself
Run activity based on description, activity guide, and facilitation notes at Wilderdom

Total Cost: Not $70

Initiatives and Games

2006-11-16T13:10:00.000-05:00

Click on the ‘sneetchball game’

to check out the lists and links on Wilderdom

Looking for a new cooperative, initiative, or game chances are you’ll be able to locate one here.

Word of Mouth

2006-11-14T22:15:00.000-05:00

"The way of the world is meeting people through other people."

A network is by nature completely dependant upon those within the network. It's growth is directly linked to the actions of those involved. The value of your knowledge, your circle of influence, and your ability to inspire others is beyond calculable figures. Help make this netWORK!

Share the Michigan Experiential Network site with...

...colleagues ...
...students...
...clients...
...friends...

...anyone who might have an interest!

Welcome to the Michigan Experiential Network

2006-11-09T09:04:00.000-05:00

The place to disseminate news, discuss critical issues, promote events, and network within the field of experiential education in Michigan.

To learn more about all this site has to offer read through the overview posts located in the previous section on the right side of this website.

Event Notice

2006-11-01T12:00:00.000-05:00

The 34th Annual AEE International Conference gets under way tomorrow in Minnesota and an in state opportunity is just around the corner...

The 6th Annual
AEE Michigan Networking Day
is Friday, November 10, 2006.

Click on an event in the calendar below for more information.

Networking without Communicating is like a Coffee Bean without Water

2006-10-23T08:12:00.000-04:00

net·work (ntwûrk) n.

1c. An extended group of people with similar interests or concerns who interact and remain in informal contact for mutual assistance or support.

v.intr.
To interact or engage in informal communication with others for mutual assistance or support.

Join the conversations

by clicking on the 'posted by' dates.

(Located at the bottom of each post)

Read, ask, answer, comment. Share your mind with us...

Add your Website

2006-10-23T08:10:00.000-04:00

Include your Organizations webiste on the Michigan Experiential Network. No membership, obligations, or cost - just a free place to connect.

Michigan based organizations and programs that deal with experiential or adventure education are invited and encouragedo add your web-site link to the Michigan Experiential Network Links located on the navigation bar to the right.

Just send your organization/company web addres to mi_experiential@yahoo.com Legitimate sites that serve as part of the Michigan Experiential Field will be added. We guarantee it.

Email Feed

2006-10-23T08:09:00.000-04:00

Stay connected with the Michigan Experiential Network from the convienience of your own email account. Recieve emailed updates of new posts and comments at the Michigan Experiential Network. To be fead, type your email address (ex: something@yahoo.com) in the Email Feed box located on the navigation bar to the right.

This service is provided by FeedBlitz and only sends you an email if new information has been added to the site. No new info - no email. Read more at http://www.feedblitz.com/faq.htm

Welcome

2006-10-11T10:31:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the Michigan Experiential Network.

It has been assessed for many years that our field needs better networking in order to disseminate news, discuss critical issues, and promote events. In an effort to establish lines of communication through a centralized meeting place without having to become a member, join a list, or jump through hoops -
the Michigan Experiential Network is here to serve you.

Advertise Your Organization & Programs

2006-10-11T10:10:00.000-04:00

Free Advertising on the Michigan Experiential Network. Link your site today!

Michigan based organizations and programs that deal with experiential or adventure education are invited and encouraged to add your web-site link to the Michigan Experiential Network Links located on the navigation bar to the right.

No membership, no obligations, no cookies, no tracking, etc. Just a free place to connect - no strings attached.

To link your web-site or web-page email the web addres to mi_experiential@yahoo.com

If your link is legitimate and serves part of the Michigan Experiential Field it will be added. We guarantee it.

Michigan Experiential Network Overview

2006-10-07T12:38:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the Michigan Experiential Network. This site is designed to connect the experiential field within the state of Michigan. It has been assessed for many years that our field needs better networking in order to disseminate news, discuss critical issues, and promote events. In an effort to establish lines of communication through a centralized meeting place this site has been created.

Discussions are on-going and may be viewed by clicking on 'comments' under any post. The comments under Topical Discussions will enable conversations to evolve with innumerable benefits to our field. Please share your thoughts, ask questions, and provide answers to your peers within our field.

To partake in a discussion simply click on your desired comments, scroll to the bottom, type your message, key the word verification (blocks auto posts) and click 'Login and Publish.' In a moment your thoughts will be added to the discussion. Direct access to engage others in our field without having to be a member, join a list, or jump through hoops.

If you have news related to the experiential field, topics to discuss, a question for the field of professionals, an event to promote, etc. send them to mi_experiential@yahoo.com and they will be posted. Please specify whether or not it is alright to include your name with the post. (Screening is done to prevent auto-posts and unprofessional language on the homepage)

Link Your Site - How To

2006-10-05T12:36:00.000-04:00

A free place to connect - no strings attached.

Michigan based organizations and programs that deal with experiential or adventure education are invited and encouraged to add your web-site link to the Michigan Experiential Network Links located on the navigation bar to the right.

To link your web-site or web-page email the web address to mi_experiential@yahoo.com

No membership, no obligations, no cookies, no tracking, etc.

Email Feed - How To

2006-10-05T12:34:00.000-04:00

Stay connected with the Michigan Experiential Network from the convienience of your own email account. Recieve emailed updates of new posts and comments at the Michigan Experiential Network. This service is provided by FeedBlitz (read more below) and only sends you an email if new information has been added to the site. No new info - no email.

Instructions: When you enter your email address and click the submit button it will take you to the FeedBlitz site for word verification (spam prevention). Once you enter the text an email will be sent to your account which you will be asked to open and verify in order to begin recieving Michigan Experiential Network updates.

At any time you may unsubscribe with a simple click from your email account.

____________________________________________________

What is FeedBlitz?
FeedBlitz turns blogs and feeds into emails to subscribers.

How does it do that?
FeedBlitz reads your blog and then figures out what's new and sends the updates to subscribers by email.

Read more at http://www.feedblitz.com/faq.htm

Topical Discussion - Looking for Answers

2006-10-05T12:33:00.000-04:00

Need advice?

Looking for a new angle?

Have a question concerning the experiential field?

Post your thoughts by clicking on comments below.

Read through and join in the conversations.

Topical Discussion - Stepping it Up

2006-10-05T12:32:00.000-04:00

Based on the needs of your organization and personal desires...

What do you think could help to unite the experiential education community in Michigan?

What contributions might you be willing to make?

Events Calander

2006-10-05T12:31:00.000-04:00

Below is the Michigan Experiential Network Events Calendar. Use the arrows in the upper left to view a new month. Details and links for the events posted on a calendar are viewable when you click on the event. For a listed view of events in a given month click on the 'Agenda' tab located at the top of the calendar.

To post an event email the event name, dates, location, description, and link an/or contact info if applicable to: mi_network@yahoo

Experiential News - Lessons in Motion

2006-09-21T16:52:00.000-04:00

Skateboard making teaches math, science
by TYLER SIPE Record-Eagle photographer

“Paul Schmitt… co-founder of Element, one of the most popular skateboard brands, and owner of California skateboard manufacturer PS Stix… started making skateboards when he was 14 and has sold more than 10 million since then.

“The skateboard industry pioneer teamed up with (Scott)* Diment, a skateboarder for about 30 years, in creating a curriculum and pilot program called CreateAskate, to be launched nationwide next year. CreateAskate helps students apply math and science in constructing and engineering a skateboard.

“It was, perhaps, an untraditional way to start a…class, but it provided a moving example of math, science and ecology principles…(for)* Scott Diment's tech-ed class at Traverse City East Junior High.”

*Inserted by Net Facilitator

Read the entire article and view an audio/photo slideshow of the project at
http://www.record-eagle.com/2006/may/15skate.htm

Comments

2006-08-03T08:41:00.000-04:00

Mission Statement

2006-08-03T08:24:00.000-04:00

To provide a platform of connectivity for Michigan’s experiential field through: news, forums, events calendar, and links to both MI experiential providers and experiential resources online.

Forum Registration Help

2006-08-01T10:30:00.000-04:00

Your Just 5 Steps Away

From Being Logged Into the Forum

The Forum Title Bar is as follows.

Step 1 - Locate the Registration Icon along the bottom and click on it

Doing so brings up the following registration form

Step 2 - Fill in the information required and be sure to click the "I Agree" radio button at the bottom left of the registration page.

Step 3 - Click on the Create Account button which will do the following two things: 1. send your Account Activation Key to your email; and 2. move you to the login page.

Step 4 - Login using the password you just created
Step 5 - Then enter your Activation Key retrieved from your email account.Your registration will be complete and you will be logged in and ready to create new threads or reply to others.

Enjoy!