Recreation Leadership: Adventure Education

Certificate Program

This course of study offers the participant both the technical/safety skills and the leadership/group process skills necessary to lead adventure programs. Students will learn to facilitate adventure games and group initiatives as well as lead people on a challenge ropes course and an indoor climbing wall. This is an experiential model that can be implemented in schools, recreation programs, camps, therapeutic recreation programs, youth service bureaus, and substance abuse rehabilitation programs.

Admission to this certificate program requires a screening process. Prospective applicants are asked to speak with the program coordinator at NCCC to obtain further information and necessary application forms. The coursework for this program must be completed in two consecutive semesters beginning in September. Students must be willing to commit to a six credit module in the Fall and a six credit module in the Spring offered on Wednesday evenings and Saturdays. Wilderness First Responder is a 72 hour eight day course which will be offered separately. Field work placement must follow satisfactory completion of all of the other coursework.

Advisor: E. Thomas Dore, edore@nwcc.commnet.edu, 860-738-6362

Click here to go to the Adventure Education website


Program Requirements

RLS*171

Programming Adventure Education

3

RLS*172

Adventure Based Counseling

3

RLS*175

Leadership & Group Process In Adventure Education 1

3

RLS*176

Ropes Course Management

3

RLS*179

Field Work in Adventure Education

2

RLS*271

Wilderness First Responder

4
   

18

1 Prerequisite: PSY* 111


Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates should be able to:

  1. Conduct large and small group activities using the Adventure Programming model.
  2. Practice appropriate framing and debrie.ng of Adventure Programming activities.
  3. Develop an Adventure Programming curriculum for a chosen population.
  4. Properly sequence Adventure Programming activities appropriate to the needs and abilities of the group.
  5. Discuss how Adventure Programming activities appropriate the needs and abilities of the group.
  6. Properly utilize climbing equipment used in Adventure Programming including the tying of knots, use of climbing harnesses and climbing hardware.
  7. Effectively manage an adventure Programming facility including high and low elements.
  8. Ensure the safety of participants in an Adventure Program including inspection of facilities and rescue procedures.
  9. Train Challenge course staff.
  10. Develop an emergency plan, and train all personnel in the execution of the plan.
  11. Administer first aid in situations where emergency services are not always available.
  12. Belay climbers, teach proper belaying techniques, and supervise safe climbing activities.
  13. Practice the logistical aspects of Adventure Programming including equipment control and inventory, intake procedures, budgeting, safety regulations, etc.

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