MANUAL

CHAPTER 16
CHAPTER 16
The PDP format allows for four
goals. A Rover Scout and mentor
can choose to add more goals, but
it is probably best to stick with four
(or fewer) goals so that the PDP is
achievable and can be completed in
a timely manner.
STARTING A PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PDP) CYCLE
Every Rover Scout develops a PDP with his or her mentor. The PDP form supports the
discussion and is used as a place to record the highlights of the discussion as well as
the goals. The Rover Scout and mentor discuss what a Rover Scout has in terms of
responsibilities, obligations and demands (at home, at school and in other activities),
as well as interests and aspirations. They explore obstacles as well as dreams and
aspirations. Out of these discussions, goals are set for the coming months. Once the
Rover Scout and mentor are satisfied with the goals, both sign the document as a
mutual symbol of commitment to the goals within the PDP.
Here is an example of a PDP:
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PDP PROCESS
Here are some ideas to keep in mind as you create your PDP:
1. Holistic Approach Using the SPICES
The PDP takes a holistic approach to the Rover’s development; all aspects
of a Rover Scout’s life are addressed, including school, Scouts, work, family,
relationships, and other activities and interests. This is a good opportunity to use
the SPICES (Social, Physical, Intellectual, Character, Emotional and Spiritual) as
the dimensions of personal growth. How is the Rover Scout developing in all of
these dimensions?
In establishing each goal, decide which of the six personal dimensions it most
includes. In looking at all the goals for a particular PDP, have all of the dimensions
been included? Is there balance among the dimensions of personal growth that
suits the Rover's life right now?
2. Striking the Right Balance
Striking the right balance between personal interests, family, school, work and
Scouting is the challenge that Rover Scouts face at this point in their lives. The
mentor invites discussions of the balance between all aspects of a Rover Scout’s life
and encourages the restoring of balance to reduce stress and anxiety.
3. Goal Setting:
It is important to have written goals to refer back to and to use to mark progress.
That is the purpose of the PDP. In addition, each of the goals should be SMART goals:
S—specific
M—measurable
A—achievable
R—relevant
T—timely
4. Cycle of Plan-Do-Review:
The Personal Development Plan follows a Plan-Do-Review process, just like the
Crew’s program planning. After the initial planning and creation of the PDP, Rovers
Scouts will meet with their mentors periodically to check in on how they are doing
in completing their goals.
236 SCOUTER MANUAL—A SCOUTER’S GUIDE TO THE CANADIAN PATH SCOUTER MANUAL—A SCOUTER’S GUIDE TO THE CANADIAN PATH 237