Scouts Canada has created a clear, uncluttered, engaging process in the “Plan-Do-Review” component of the Canadian Path.

Scouting is made up of intuitive principles that are intended to be taken at face value. Simplicity can be elusive; we tend to prefer complications. At first blush there’s nothing groundbreaking or new about this approach. It’s so intuitive and simple I think most of us would pass it over with a “sure, I get that” and start looking for a ‘Plan-Do-Review” training syllabus or PowerPoint presentation, but you won’t find one – it’s just that simple!

Plan-Do-Review is useful in a Tiger Den, a Venturing Crew, and every age division in between. The process remains the same while the contribution of adults is scalable in response to their Scout’s capabilities.

Plan

Scouts are involved in the planning process—brainstorming, making suggestions and providing input about the program Areas they are interested in. Then, with guidance from the Scouters, Scouts make the choices about what activities they will pursue. Scouters engage all Scouts in the planning for age-appropriate activities and adventures.

Decide what we are going to do
What is the location
Divide out the jobs
What Material and gear are we going to need
What are some of the new skills that we need to learn or review
What are some of the Safety concerns?
Agree on all the details

Do

Everyone — Scouts and Scouters — are involved in the planned activities, and all youth are engaged and challenged in ways appropriate to their abilities. The Scout Law, Promise, and Motto of make up the basic code of behavior for activities — creating a well-rounded program full of fun and adventure.

Learn any new skills at the meetings
Test out skills
Take part in the adventure
Make sure it runs successfully, the way we planned it

Review

It’s important to include Review as part of the process of Scout activities, so Scouts can learn how to reflect upon their involvement and to determine how to revise or enhance future activities.