55. Ancient Caves that Promote Experiential Learning for All (Chris Hinsperger)

Bonnechere Caves in Canada is located under a hill of limestone, said by geologists to have been the bottom of a tropical sea 500 million years ago. The Caves are a weird and wonderful sight but it is also a rich learning experience that promotes lifelong learning in all aspects of the business. From young children going to learn about caves, bats, and fossils from a time before the age of the dinosaurs, to the young people working at the Caves who learn about geology and the running of a business. How can a tourism site be run as a learning experience for all that enter? I am joined by the owner who will share his story and how he built a business that promotes lifelong learning.

Chris Hinsperger is the co-owner of Bonnechere Caves, an ancient natural wonder in Eganville, Ontario, about 120km west of Ottawa. As a student Chris worked at the Caves learning about the history and how to run the business from the owners, Tom and Ruth Woodward. The Caves were discovered and explored by Tom Woodward in 1955 and became a major attraction with learning at the heart.

Bonnechere Caves: http://www.bonnecherecaves.com/