RTM 151A-H
Introduction to the Backcountry and Outdoor Education
#Discovering the Backcountry Environment through Recreation
What you need to know about RTM 151 A-H
Purpose:
Our planet is filled with exciting wilderness environments that are available for your exploration and recreation. The planet in general is in serious trouble and many of our precious wilderness areas are also threatened by people through their lack of knowledge. Some of our wilderness areas are suffering from 'underuse' as well because less and less people have the motivation and/or safety skills to get to these exciting places well off the beaten paths.
The introduction to the backcountry series has two broad goals: to teach the skills and knowledge necessary so people can safely enjoy recreational experiences in the backcountry and to teach people how to care for the wilderness environment.
The RTM 151 classes focus on a specific outdoor recreation activity and the class will cover several generic outdoor topics related to all outdoor recreation activity (e.g. hypothermia) as well as all the specific knowledge and skills necessary for the beginner or novice participant. As an example, the class in rock climbing (RTM 151B) will cover generic topics like hydration and map reading but very specific topics on climbing technique, rope handling, and safety procedures. Another example, the 151H Caving class will cover general backcountry topics like hypothermia or safe water but also focus on specific procedures for safe horizontal caving including gear, group travel, and environmental practices.
RTM 151 A_H Selected Topics in the Use of Backcountry Environments are 2 unit classes in the following topics. Backpacking (A), Rock Climbing (B), Winter Mountaineering (C), Backcountry Waterways (D), Survival (F), Challenge Course (G), Caving (H). Brief descriptions and photos appear below.
Format:
The 151 A - F (each letter represents a different course) are scheduled to meet several times on campus for the first part of the class but the major part of the class will be done in an experiential format - traditionally a 3 day weekend intensive. The specific schedule of each class can be found in the syllabus which should be available from the RTM office or at this link (https://www.csun.edu/~vcrec004/AEE/AEE_Directory.html#appJ) in Appendix J. Up to date syllabi and course information will be sent to you by the instructor when you register for the class.
How do the trips or field classes work:
Students are provided with equipment lists and directions to the wilderness site (from 1-3 hours by car), students arrange car pools, students must provide personal gear (i.e. clothing) and food, BUT all specialized equipment is provided by the university (e.g. ropes, backpacks, stoves, etc.). The trips do create some additional costs to the student (gas, sometimes an entrance fees to national parks). But every effort is made to keep these to a minimal amount and economics should not prevent you from participating.
Students must be able to participate in the full field class experience. Field Trip schedules generally require the full day listed as a trip date (e.g. all day Friday). Students not attending the trip (i.e. the class experience) will be given an "F" grade unless an alternative is arranged. Only medical or true family emergencies will be accepted as rationale for Incompletes or Withdrawals. Work and life schedule conflicts do not warrant the granting of an Incomplete request.
Specific trip details vary and that information plus introductory lecture material will be available from your instructor at a class meeting prior to the weekend class. It is required that you be there for that final orientation to make sure that all university paperwork is in place.
By the way - the field classes are fun while your are learning exciting new skills and information about the natural environment. Our focus is always on safety first and the courses are a perfect introduction to the great outdoors. So no experience is necessary - try something new. Classes fill quickly so register early.
You can contact us:
Recreation and Tourism Management / Redwood Hall// 2nd floor/ NW corner / Room 262/ Phone: 818-677-3202. Email: rtminfo@csun.edu
Course Descriptions for the Backcountry Series
RTM 151 A-H Selected Topics in the Use of Backcountry Environments (1 or 2): Follow the links below for some photos and additional information on these courses.
RTM 151B Rock Climbing and Mountaineering (2)
RTM 151C Winter Mountaineering (2)
RTM 151D Backcountry Waterways I - Quietwater (2)
RTM 151G Challenge/Ropes Courses (2)
Due to the state budget cutbacks our normal range of offerings has been reduced. Please check course syllabi for details of class meetings. Syllabi are available from the department web page (rtm.csun.edu) or if Dr. Wright is teaching the section it is available from his faculty web page (www.alwrightonline.com)
Fall 2010 Field Class Schedule
Ticket # Course Number and Title Field Class Course Dates RTM 151 A - Backpacking - no offering this fall RTM 151 B Rock Climbing - one section only TBA RTM 151 G Ropes Course September
RTM 151 H Caving September 24-26 RTM 151 D Waterways - Quiet - Canoe and Kayak October 2-3
RTM 151 F Survival (special section with Jewish studies course) contact: Gabe Goldman <primskills@yahoo.com>