Summer Camp

Hmmm... different philosophies, I guess.  If they do not schedule any events where map and compass or orienteering events, or aquatics, or whatever, are available for those who need them, as a Scoutmaster, I advise them of the need to provide those opportunities for advancement, but do not "force"  anything on the PLC, other than decisions which affect health and safety. And, I am curious... what exactly do you mean by "force."  Do you dictate their schedule?  

Scouts pick but they don't. This isn't the scouts get to do what they want program, this is the scouts get to lead and do things that interest them but they still have to run "the program". As adults we're the framework to make sure the program is being ran. Think of it like a Montessori school. We know that in any given 18 month period national wants us to provide a program that provides the opportunity for a scout to get from nothing to 1st class rank and star soon thereafter; so everything for scout through 1st class has to get covered at some point in any given 18 month period. Say you have a PLC that hates land navigation, sure they can push it off, maybe they love swimming and swim for one meeting every month, but sometime in that 18 month period the adults have the duty to force the PLC to accept the fact that they have to do land navigation, at least enough to teach the new crossovers so they can advance. 

One way to encourage the scouts to have their handbook for signoff (As an aide from the cell phone issue) is to have them present it when they "request to be tested".. This also helps with the issue you presented in the other thread abput when do they get signed off. I am with you that it without botes, or assistance. The scout learns, practices, then is tested. The sign-off occurs with successful passing of the test. 

For us, it's mitigation of an unnecessary liability.  An ideal Scout is trustworthy, but reality is often different.  I've had a Scout close the curtain to his cabin in my face when it's time to clean the shower house and latrine, knowing full well that I can't go into that space and get him out.  We had a parent insist that her son passed the Swimmer test at camp but they didn't record it.  I watched the same kid start drowning after swimming 15 yards on Saturday.  We have an 11 y/o refuse to head back to camp at 10 PM because he couldn't find his $1000 phone.   I don't need parents suing me because Timmy's phone got damaged or lost.  Even if they lose, I'd still have to pay a lawyer for the defense.  I'm unwilling to put myself in the position of being accused of allowing cyber bullying or worse.  One method the Scoutmaster is considering is setting a rule of phones only being allowed for Scouting purposes.  Using it for something else is demonstrating that the Scout is not Trustworthy.  That prevents the Scout from advancing in rank because they aren't living by the Scout law.  I think maybe setting a position requirement is better.  PLs, SPL, and Troop Guides can have phones for access to instructional material and time keeping.  I still think it's a liability. As far as adults, I also expect them to use their phones only for Scouting needs.  For example, entering requirements in SB because the Scouts keep forgetting to bring their handbooks.  I have no problem with putting my phone away for the weekend and wouldn't mind just leaving it at home.   The other thing I forgot to mention is that phones present another opportunity for conspicuous displays of wealth that run counter to the values of Scouting.  Scouting is supposed to be open to all kids.  It's hard to feel welcome in an environment where some kids have wealthy enough parents to be a 10 y/o with a smartphone and another with parents who can barely afford to buy a Scout uniform and camping gear.  

Agree... but making this a reality is quite difficult, as it is the Scouts (PLC) who choose their activities and calendar.  If it was up to me (I would be an excellent SPL 😜 ) then the schedule and activities would be radically different. But, as I understand the program, I can only suggest and mentor, and step in (veto) only in cases of health and safety.