Perceptions of co-operation and collegiality by participants of a one-day challenge course programme

Abstract

While many studies have sought to understand challenge courses and their benefits, less emphasis has been focused on understanding participants' perceptions of these programmes. In this study, 16 adults working at a dental office attended a one-day challenge course programme designed to teach lessons about co-operation. Data were collected via in vivo observations, digital video observations and two individual interviews with 11 participants. These qualitative sources of data were analysed and several themes emerged. For the purposes of this paper the following two themes are described: (a) co-operation and (b) camaraderie. Findings suggested that improvements to co-operation were not clearly recognized in the workplace; however, experiences with these concepts were identified during the challenge course and a sense of enhanced camaraderie was acknowledged. Connections to related literature and suggestions for research and practice are provided.