Simplified Progression

An introduction to the history of outdoor education and the philosophies that inform it. Students will gain a developmental understanding of different philosophies and theories of experiential learning and ways of knowing associated with outdoor education such as place and project-based learning, inquiry approaches to teaching and learning and the importance of experiential learning.

Introduction to the interdisciplinary nature of environmental concepts and issues, grounded in the natural sciences, with some attention to social sciences, and policy. Focus on complexity and splendor of the natural world and how it sustains human and non-human life. Examine major impacts on environmental systems, how these affect human wellbeing, and how to address these challenges.

A broad introduction to the Earth’s systems (geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere). Explores how these systems interact, how human activities are impacting the Earth, and how we can use the geologic record to better understand the Earth as a system. Gain an appreciation for the delicate balance between human activities and the environment.

Study and evaluate schooling within the United States as a social institution that both shapes and is shaped by societal forces. Critical examination of its origins, evolution, and current forms. Provides a conceptual framework from which students will reflect upon and question American public education.

Two week immersive wilderness expedition that teaches students foundational skills like expedition behavior, camp craft, wilderness navigation, and outdoor self care. Serves as a touchstone cohort experience at the beginning of the program.

Practical leadership training co-taught with the Boise State University Outdoor Program that prepares students to lead others in the outdoors. Students will be trained in practical emergency protocols and Boise State University Outdoor Program Systems. Includes basic wilderness medical training and a one week backpacking trip.

An introductory course designed to build interpersonal, communication, team building, conflict management, and de-escalation skills specifically in outdoor and informal education settings. Students will learn about theories and best practices in communication, leadership and conflict management. The class will provide opportunities to not only put these different ideas and theories into practice, but also reflect on and discuss the learning gained from these experiences.

This course focuses on providing education to diverse audiences in outdoor settings. Students will learn effective teaching techniques and strategies for outdoor learning environments. Topics covered include inclusive education practices, learning differences, and strategies for designing and adapting outdoor education programs that meet the educational needs of all individuals.

Students spend 10 days developing the skills and competencies required of a rock climbing guide

This course will look more deeply at relevant curriculum theory, pedagogy and assessment practices for outdoor education. Students will articulate their own personal philosophy of learning and align this with learning outcomes and curricula they develop utilizing the Understanding by Design (UbD) template.

Students spend 10 days developing the skills and competencies required of a ski/snowboard guide.

Students spend 10 days developing the skills and competencies required of a whitewater guide, including basic hydrology, biomechanics, river rescue, mechanical advantage, and group management.

Two week immersive expedition that provides students an opportunity to further develop the core expeditionary and outdoor skills that

Wilderness medicine certification course that delves into the essential principles of wilderness medicine, including comprehensive physical examinations, gathering critical patient history, and evaluating vital signs. Students will receive 80 hours of hands-on training and an industry-standard certification essential for a wide variety of professional roles.

Introduction to problem-based learning using senses of place and concepts of justice to practice refining an environmental problem, seeking knowledge, consulting experts, collaborating on solutions, producing a proposal, and reflecting on the process.

Examination of the causes of conflict, conflict management theory, and conflict management techniques applied in interpersonal, intergroup, organizational, and community settings. Discussion and skill development through experiential learning will focus on such conflict management techniques as interpersonal management, mediation, arbitration, negotiation, and reconciliation.

Students teach Two BroncoFit Technical Outdoor Skills courses (or an equivalent number of OP Trips) under the supervision of an experienced instructor, reflect upon that experience, and receive feedback to improve their educational practice.

This course explores the political context of natural resource and environmental issues and examines how various aspects of the political process influence natural resource and environmental policy outcomes.

Provides an overview of policy processes for the environment, including policymaking and implementation at local, regional, national and/or international scales. Examines political and institutional barriers and opportunities to policy choices and corresponding impacts on the environment. Emphasis placed on variety of stakeholders involved in decision-making and the inherent conflicts that emerge.

The theoretical and policy issues associated with the use of natural resources are addressed, including property rights issues that arise when considering collective goods, externalities, and common property resources. Tools used in the design and evaluation of resource policy, such as benefit/cost analysis, are covered.

Through application of sociological concepts, methods and theories, students are offered an opportunity to explore current issues and social problems experienced by rural populations, including demographic, economic and sociocultural changes. Special attention paid to the rural west and Idaho.

Sociological approach to the study of environmentalism, social implications of environmental policy, environmental conflicts, and the distributive justice nature of environmental issues.

Experiential learning opportunities that asks students to step into the role of teacher, facilitator, guide, and mentor. This can either be fulfilled through a BSU-organized outdoor camp for local children, or through an external partner.

A chance to reflect upon the skills, philosophies, and knowledge gained throughout the program.

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Students work with local schools (e.g. Riverstone and Sage) to lead day trips and begin planning Spring capstone expeditions

Examination of environmental problems from an ethical point of view. Topics include population control, pollution, animal liberation, the moral and legal rights of nature, and social ecology.

Study and apply literacy theories appropriate to professional writing in organizations and communities. Analyzes formal and informal learning in a variety of settings beyond the classroom.

Explores various interdisciplinary methods of understanding senses of place and interpretations of landscapes across time and space. Attention given to social, cultural, economic, and scientific perspectives. May include oral histories, toponymic surveys of place names, interviews and ethnographies, or other approaches.

Examines historical issues concerning relationships between humans and nature in North America. Explores the role of nature in North American colonization and industrialization and the development of philosophies, public policies, and popular culture relating to the natural environment.