Radford University Program Information

Course Title: Expedition Skills

The course title is Expedition Skills, with the course number RCPT 442. This course offers 3 credit hours.

Course Description

This course is designed for outdoor recreation and leadership students interested in obtaining skills in expedition leadership. Students will plan, implement, and participate in a 7-9 day backcountry expedition, which may consist of canoeing, backpacking, biking, etc., primarily off campus. The purpose of this course is to provide an experientially-based opportunity to develop the technical and leadership skills needed to facilitate extended trips in the outdoor recreation industry."

Detailed Description of Content of the Course"

In this course, students will develop and implement a backcountry expedition, which may consist of any of the following activities: backpacking, canoeing, climbing, caving, biking. This course will take place primarily off-campus and will focus on the acquisition of technical and leadership skills in wilderness recreation. Formal training and experiences will include:

• Trip planning
• Risk management assessments
• Formative and summative assessments of the experience
• Technical skills training
• Application of outdoor living skills
• Leadership development activities

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Course instruction strategies may include, but not be limited to, the following:

• Lectures
• Labs
• Peer-instruction
• Field trips to access the natural resources of Southwest Virginia

Goals and Objectives of the Course

Upon the completion of this course, the students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate basic technical skills in at least one outdoor recreation activity, such as but not limited to: canoeing, kayaking, backpacking, camping, rock climbing, biking, or caving.
2. Plan an extended expedition of at least 7 days in length using the G.O. P.R.E.P.A.R.E method of trip planning.
3. Implement an extended expedition based on a formal trip plan by facilitating the required logistics.
4. Develop a personal awareness of one's leadership abilities through a structured evaluation process.
5. Evaluate an extended outdoor experience based on specified goals and objectives formulated through the trip planning process.
6. Apply the appropriate risk management protocol to ensure a safe experience.
7. Evaluate their ability to lead extended outdoor adventures in the future.

Assessment Measures

Students may be assessed through the following assignments:

• Written trip plans
• Peer-, self-, and instructor-evaluations
• Journaling
• Leading

Prerequisites

The prerequisite for this course is RCPT 331.

Radford University

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Overview:

Radford University is a public university located in Radford, Virginia. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and continuing education options. The university is known for its commitment to student success and its focus on providing a supportive and engaging campus environment.

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Services Offered:

Radford University offers a variety of services to its students, including:

Housing:

On-campus housing options are available for students, with a variety of residence halls and apartments to choose from.

Student Life:

The university provides numerous opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, sports, and Greek life.

Diversity & Culture:

Radford University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community, with resources and programs available to support students from all backgrounds.

Resources, Services and Support:

Students have access to a range of support services, including academic advising, career counseling, health services, and financial aid.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Radford University offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can enjoy a variety of activities, including:

Outdoor Recreation:

The university is located near the New River, offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Campus Events:

Radford hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and sporting events.

Community Involvement:

Students can get involved in the local community through volunteer opportunities and service projects.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Supportive Environment:

Radford University is known for its supportive and welcoming campus community.

Affordable Education:

The university offers a variety of financial aid options to help students afford their education.

Career-Focused Programs:

Radford's academic programs are designed to prepare students for successful careers.

Beautiful Location:

The university is located in a scenic area of southwest Virginia, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

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Academic Programs:

Radford University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Programs:

The university offers a variety of undergraduate degrees in fields such as business, education, health sciences, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

Radford also offers a number of graduate programs, including master's degrees and doctoral programs.

Online Programs:

The university offers a variety of online programs for students who prefer to study remotely.

Continuing Education:

Radford provides continuing education opportunities for individuals seeking to enhance their skills or knowledge.

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Other:

Financial Aid:

Over 80% of Radford University students receive some form of financial assistance.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio:

The university has a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, providing students with personalized attention from their professors.

Diversity:

33% of Radford students are from ethnically diverse backgrounds.

Career Success:

87% of Radford graduates are on a path related to their career goals.