How to choose a wilderness immersion program is the topic for episode 69 of the Jack Mountain Bushcraft Podcast. Christopher and I discuss the three things a potential student should ask themselves and the ten things a student should look for in a school. Having run such programs for over 20 years, I hate surprises. More specifically, I don’t like it when a student is surprised on a course by how it is run, what the content is, etc. They should know this coming in.
What a potential participant on a wilderness immersion program should ask themselves:
- What are my interests? Mountaineering? Bushcraft? Nature study?
- What are my goals? Professional training? Break from my life? Explore a new hobby?
- How much time do I want to invest in the program?
What a potential participant on a wilderness immersion program should ask about a school they’re interested in:
- Location of the program
- Program length
- Program format: full or part time, live on site or live nearby, etc.
- Educational philosophy of the school. What are they trying to achieve?
- Experience and background of the school and instructors
- Course curriculum
- Assessment system
- Is there a religious or spiritual component
- Does the school make untrue marketing claims
- Do your research!
PHOTO: Group at Grand Pitch on the East Branch of the Penobscot at the end of a month-long canoe expedition course.
Kid-Friendly?
There is no profanity used in this episode.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 41:49 — 38.3MB)
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