Bush Environments

Unit code: SOL2002 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
SOL1001 - Natural Environments 1; and
SOL1002 - Safety in Natural Environments
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit complies with industry standards and requirements as established by the Adventure Activity Standards and administered by Outdoors Victoria. Students develop lightweight camping skills, planning and logistics, facilitation and leadership skills. Students will learn to move through and see the environment in different ways, to participate in and conduct day and extended overnight bushwalks. They gain sound knowledge of the theories and modes of instruction of bushwalking and an understanding of the physical, psychological and social demands of bushwalking and lightweight camping. Caring for, and appreciation of, and understanding the bush environment through alternative views, the utilisation of minimal impact practices and industry-accepted standards are emphasised.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Advise appropriate bushwalking equipment for different uses and contexts with wide ranging challenges;
  2. Evaluate and make evidence-based judgements on the application of bushwalking in an educational and recreational setting as appropriate to various client groups;
  3. Adapt navigational concepts and appropriate navigational practice in complex and unpredictable situations;
  4. Analyse and reflect on the historical, philosophical, environmental and contexts of bushwalking in Australia and review current requirements related to the safety and well-being of individuals and groups; and
  5. Collaborate, plan and prepare an extended bushwalk with professional judgement and leadership utilising minimal environment impact practices to industry-accepted standards.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Due to risk management and professional/industry requirements to demonstrate knowledge and skill within both simulated and workplace environments, attendance requirements and hurdle tasks apply to field teaching work and practicums.

Assessment type: Practicum
|
Grade: 20%
Field navigation practical test (Hurdle)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 20%
Field interactive teaching activity
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 30%
Bushwalking Trip Plan
Assessment type: Report
|
Grade: 30%
Reflective report

Field Teaching requires mandatory attendance of 100% attendance, except under extenuating circumstances. This is due to the unit containing a significant competency component, enabling students to acquire and demonstrate essential skills to meet industry practice (VU Standards for Assessment Procedure (HE) Policy clause 25, 26, 29). Competency is also assessed through completion of hurdle practicum assessment.

Required reading

Selected readings will be made available via the unit VU Collaborate site.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Outdoor Education and Environmental Science
SBOE | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Outdoor Leadership
SBOL | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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