Re: The moldy tent agenda
Amick Robert (amick@SPOT.COLORADO.EDU)
Thu, 31 Oct 1996 11:11:19 -0700
I would have to agree with Jerry and Joyce; this appears to be a case of
intent (no pun intended) versus impact. The Scout apparently did not know
of the consequences of storing the tent without drying it out; or perhaps
just forgot (I think we all do that occasionally). This does not cure the
fact that the tent was damaged. But surely there are better ways to help
the Scout learn from the experience and at the same time educate others
without punitive or negative reinforcement. Humiliation and embarrassment
caused by compelling the Scout to "sleep in the moldy tent" as suggested
in some of the posts are probably the least beneficial approaches and may
have subtle but significant negative long term effects on the Scout.
As I have said in other
forums, Scouts get plenty of negative reinforcement in school, sometimes
at home, and other venues. As a species we always seem to be "quick to
punish and slow to praise.." Perhaps if it were the other way around,
lessons would be learned much more positively and retained as fond
memories rather than unpleasant experiences...seems like Baden-Powell had
some thoughts along those lines as well...those who have not read his
writings are encouraged to do so. BP's wisdom in these areas is timeless
and highly appropriate for today's Scouting; and such knowledge would
be most helpful when dealing with situations such as this.
Bob Amick, Explorer Advisor, High Adventure Explorer Post 72, Boulder, CO.
On Wed, 30 Oct 1996, Jerry and Joyce Johnson wrote:
>
> I've always been uncomfortable with the concept of punishment in a
> Scouting program. I think your Scoutmaster is taking the right action.
> The best result is for the Scout (and the rest of the Troop) to learn
> from his mistake. He should certainly be involved in the cleaning/repair
> of the tent
>
> Just a thought, but where were the rest of the patrol and the SPL in
> this? A group drying and cleaning activity might have avoided the problem
> altogether and been a great learning opportunity.
>
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
