Field Work

An outstanding program component cited by the national Association for Experiential Education is OLP field work, where students deliver one-day programs to local schools and social service agencies under staff supervision.

Adaptive FieldworkOLP staff believe that once students have experienced an activity and have been trained in basic instructional techniques, it's time to practice those skills in a real environment. Students have field work with a variety of populations, and the community agency receives an adventure program at no cost.

Field work instructional opportunities include canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, challenge course programs, map & compass and natural history hikes in winter. Students develop, teach, and evaluate 10 programs each year, and receive feedback from OLP staff as a means of improving their teaching and leadership skills.

"...The corps members realized this was a learning exercise for the students of your program as well, but each thought the instruction very professional and felt comfortable in the students' hands. Many came away with a new fascination of rock climbing and excited about the possible initiative/challenge type activities they may be able to lead with students in this area. It was also a good introduction for many in the challenging nature of outdoor leadership."
- David Critton, program director, Massachusetts Forests & Parks Americorps
"...Each of the trips was well organized and the student leaders were very enthusiastic, competent, and related well with our students. We feel so fortunate to have these opportunities through your program, since many of our students could not otherwise afford to participate. We strongly believe that these outdoor challenge experiences offer great opportunities for personal growth as well as an introduction to healthy life-long leisure activities."
- Mary Cadorette and Kim Gangwisch-Marsh, Franklin County Technical School