Outdoor and Rec Athletics 0203 - Backyard Wilderness

The Connecticut River Valley is a bioregion rich in natural variety and beauty. This course will be an opportunity to explore the natural places in our own backyard while examining the concept of wilderness in contemporary society. The social, spiritual, ecological, artistic, accessible and personal perspectives of wilderness will be the foundation of this place-based education class. By hiking and paddling we will attempt to develop a sense of place with some truly magical local outdoor sites. Readings and projects will further develop this concept of a backyard wilderness. Each class will venture outdoors to participate in activities including a swamp walk, working with a outdoor universal access program, using primitive earth-based skills, and overnight camping in order to understand wilderness perspectives experientially. THIS CLASS IS OPEN TO FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS. 5-College students will be graded pass/fail.

This class may be used for CEL 1 credit.