The ropes course is ultimately a vehicle for experiential learning.
The instructor elaborated on the concept of the ropes course and what it can offer students. We try and put people into a situation where they learn concepts like trust, communication, acknowledgement of others and taking difficult risks. We put them in a situation where they can get the physical experience of those concepts and take that back into their everyday lives.The ropes course is ultimately a vehicle for experiential learning. When you make a mistake, you learn very quickly not to do it again. It’s the fastest, most effective way to learn.
Rather than focusing on individuals, the course is meant for large groups trying to work together and face challenges as a team. We have specific learning outcomes for every activity for the team to translate back into real life. For instance, if we have a hockey team come in, we’ll have lessons for them to put back onto the ice. A typical day at the ropes course involves a four-hour program with exercises on the ground and in the air. The course boasts 13 high elements and hundreds of low activities. You can go anywhere from one foot to 50 feet up in the air. The whole premise around the ropes course is challenge by choice. We want people to step outside their own comfort zone and push themselves, because it’s human nature to take the path of the least resistance.
