Mama Mary Sunbeam 2 - Our First Lodge in 2000 at the Oasis

Benefits of the Oasis Retreat (the Native American Healing  Lodge Experience)

            The benefits of our field trip to the Oasis Retreat in Great Falls, Virginia on December 8, 1999 were numerous.  Nine students and two instructors gathered together with two facilitators led by Mary Arpante Sunbeam of Positive Education, Inc.  The full day offered all participants a fresh perspective and the possibility to construct a more supportive framework for learning ESL.  Specific merits of the trip were observed immediately in some cases.  Other improvements in behavior are anticipated in the future.

            Physical and health benefits

            Psychological benefits and self-esteem

            Motivation for learning

            Respect for others, listening

            Spirit of cooperation, collaborative learning

            Cultural sensitivity, pride in indigenous cultures

            Respect for nature and our surroundings