INSTRUCTOR: Ron Watters

COURSE DESCRIPTION
This class is designed to provide practical experience in fundamental outdoor skills.  Skills and topics selected for the class are those which have applications across many outdoor activities.  Course content includes: knot tying, route finding with map and compass, fire and shelter building, minimal impact techniques, basic survival, outdoor safety, and essential equipment and clothing.
 

TEXT
No text is required, but reference works applicable to the class are available in the Outdoor Program library.  The Outdoor Program Office is open 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays.
 

CLASS SCHEDULE
The schedule varies each semester.  Check the following website for details: outdoor classes.
 

ATTENDANCE POLICY
Since this course meets on a workshop basis, attendance is critically important.  The bulk of the class takes place on the two weekend days planned in the schedule.  Not attending one of the weekend days is equivalent to missing as much as six to eight weeks of a normal class.  Missing that much of a class in which participatory activity is a key component is unacceptable.
    Thus, you must attend both weekend days to receive credit for this class.  Note that there is no way to make up for a missed weekend day.  If you get sick or have other conflicts, your only option is to drop the class.  The instructor will sign a drop card, and, if desired, you can take the class at a later time.
    Remember, attendance on the weekend is mandatory.  If you miss one or more days you can not receive credit for the class.
 

EVALUATION CRITERIA
This class involves learning physical skills and participating in a variety of outdoor activities.  Thus, attendance is a key part of grading:
    60% Attendance and class participation
    40% Final Exam
 
 

TEST
A test on the material covered in class will given on the last day of the workshop.  If you desire more time to study, you may also take the test during the week following the class.  The test will be available at the Outdoor Office in the Student Union Building.
 

INSTRUCTOR
Ron Watters is an adjunct faculty member of the Physical Education Department.  He is the former director of the ISU Outdoor Program and the author of seven books on outdoor activities.  Note that he is a part time instructor and does not have office hours like full time faculty.  Feel free to call him at home (232-6857), or you can leave a message at the Outdoor Program Office (236-3912).  You may also reach him through e-mail: wattron@isu.edu.
 

Physical Activity Required in this Class
Some parts of this class are held outside and will involve physical activity.  You should be physically fit enough to hike two or three miles.  While outside, the weather can be variable: rain, snow, wind, and even sunny and hot.  Be prepared for all sorts of conditions and be sure to dress appropriately.
 

ACCOMMODATIONS FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Accommodations are provided for students with disabilities.  Please let the instructor know prior to the class so that appropriate accommodations can be arranged.
 

ADDITIONAL HELP
Several members of the Outdoor Leadership class will be assisting with the weekend portion of this workshop.  If you need help on any of the skills taught in the class, feel free to ask for their assistance.

Return to: ISU Outdoor Program Home Page
                Ron Watters Home Page