Adventure Expeditions and Interpretive Leadership AEL

Holland Code: S (Social)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see the website for details.

Arts & Literacy High school courses in Recreation and Fitness Leadership, Health for Life, or Healthy Active Living Education would be beneficial preparation for this program. Grade 12 English is required. The student will need the writing skills for developing educational and marketing material.

Math & Science General math skills required to understand, create and manage budgets related to the design, planning, and implementation of various eco-tourism programs. High School biology is not required, however many courses in this subject are part of the diploma program. A background in biology would be beneficial preparation for this program.

Technology Basic computer skills required (Microsoft Office, email, Internet, checking student portal daily).

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Ability to empathize with others, see possibilities and be optimistic
• Be inclusive – able to draw others in, ability to support others
• Positive and pro-social disposition, outgoing and open-minded
• Able to take initiative
• An enthusiastic interest in nature
• Creativity for developing presentations
• Enjoy creating positive experiences for others
• Motivated to achieve and have the ability to motivate others
• Awareness and appreciation for environmental protection and the profound role that our natural world plays in leisure pursuits.
• Highly skilled in working with people of all ages and abilities

Useful background experience for this program would be

Experience as a coach, camp counsellor, student council member; or involvement in Parks and Recreation or community involvement; being a youth or church leader, lifeguard and/or swimming instructor, Guide/Scout leader; or participation in athletics.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become an

Interpretive naturalist leader, eco-tourism leader, travel and tourism guide, program leader, outdoor sport and recreation guide, or tour guide.  They will have the ability to operate and manage attractions, resorts, activities, trails, and interpretive projects.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Outdoor sport and recreation guides work outdoors, often in wilderness conditions. The work generally is seasonal and can be strenuous
• Guides may be away from home for long periods and their hours of work may be unpredictable (for example, virtually non-stop during favourable weather conditions).
• Must work constructively in heterogeneous groups, not of their choosing
• Workdays, evenings, and weekends especially in summer
• Lifting items weighing up to 20 kilograms may be required

Places you may find yourself employed include

Community Centres, YMCA’s, Resorts, Camps, Sports, and Entertainment Centres, Privately owned amusement parks, Agri-Tourism Facilities, or Outdoor Recreation and Education Centres.

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

Guide

• Planning expeditions and instructional sessions that are appropriate for clients' abilities and environmental conditions
• Ensuring clients bring appropriate equipment and supplies
• Obtaining appropriate land use permits
• Arranging transportation to and from the starting point
• Leading the group during the expedition
• Using their experience and expertise to manage inherent risks posed by activities
• Providing first aid services when needed

Interpretive Naturalist

• Research the area's natural history or environment
• Conduct nature walks and field outings or provide campground talks
• Prepare brochures and write newspaper articles and labels or signs
• Develop, present, and evaluate educational programming for the general public or particular audiences (for example, children, horticultural groups)
• Assist with general facility operations
• May participate in developing and presenting interpretive theatre (dramatic) programs
• Gather information about the local environment and create illustrations for presentations

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Discover Tourism
• ECO Canada (Environmental Careers Organization)
• Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council
• www.emerit.ca

Opportunities for further development or education

• Course work may be used as a basis of university admission or credits may transfer to a university degree at many different schools.

Last Modified: January 11, 2024