CONT918: Outdoor, Environmental and Experiential Education

Course Schedule

Course Description

Not all classrooms have four walls. Learning in the outdoors is a magical space where students can explore, discover more about themselves, and connect with both nature and their peers. It's a unique learning environment that's constantly changing, encouraging us to do the same.

This course will equip you with the skills and tools to become a competent and influential outdoor educator. You'll develop a deeper understanding of your leadership style, strengths, teamwork abilities, and technical skillset in the outdoors. You will learn to weave Indigenous perspectives into your outdoor education practice. By embracing Indigenous ways of knowing and doing, you'll foster a deeper appreciation for the environment and respect for local communities and cultures, recognizing how they are intertwined with the land and the stories it holds.

You'll discover how to use these tools and your knowledge of the environment and Indigenous culture to develop meaningful and robust lesson plans, course outlines, scope and sequences, risk assessments, and trip plans. You'll consolidate your learning by designing a multi-day outdoor excursion that meets a chosen program's requirements for school-aged students in your care and your educational practice.

What You Will Learn and Do

In this course you’ll have the opportunity to

• build personal competence, learn outdoor survival skills, and develop ways to navigate group dynamics 
• explore the interconnectedness of Indigenous culture, increased awareness of ourselves, teachings, and history connected to the natural environment
• identify your leadership style and discover how to use your strengths to become an influential outdoor education leader
• consider pedagogical approaches to teach and lead outdoor activities while promoting safe, inclusive, and positive experiences 
• learn safety practices and how to complete risk assessments and plan an excursion for an outdoor program  
• design an outdoor excursion by connecting the curriculum expectations and experiential learning opportunities 

Application Requirements

Course Materials

Accommodations

Applicants who require accommodations for a specific learning need (e.g., learning disability) within their AQ/ABQ course, should click here for further information and support.

Have a question? Contact us!

Refund Schedule

If you drop a course:

1. by the midpoint of the course, you will receive 100% of your course fee.
2. after the midpoint, before the end of the course, you will receive 50% of your course fee.

For more about our refund policies, visit our Fees & Refunds page.