ENVR 154 Maps and Navigation focuses on the navigation skills required of technologists working outdoors to locate oneself, stay "found", and return safely from the field. The course includes hands-on use of navigation tools in field settings including map, compass, aerial imagery, altimeter, and Global Positioning System (GPS). Pre-trip planning in a navigation context will also be covered including developing access plans and route plans, and estimating travel times.
Accessibility Services Notice
Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.Course Details| Total number of weeks | 15 |
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| Total Credits | |
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| Total Hours | 60 |
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Typical hours per week breakdown| Lecture | 1 |
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| Lab (lab, field, computer) | 3 |
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Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
- Distinguish between types of maps; their powers, and limitations
- Recognize and identify common features on topographic maps
- Use latitude/longitude and the UTM grid system for geolocation
- Calculate and use magnetic declination
- Summarize current and emerging GPS technology
- Measure distances, areas and directions on maps
- Design and create detailed access plans and route plans
- Interpret and use aerial imagery to assist navigation
- Use a handheld GPS receiver for navigation and data collection
- Use map and compass for navigation
- Calculate and use various map scales
- Demonstrate professionalism, field preparedness, and punctuality
Teaching and Learning Approach
Lectures will introduce map and navigational theory which will then be demonstrated and practiced during lab
work. At the beginning of the semester, labs will be indoors to lay the foundation for map reading. By mid-
semester, labs will occur at a variety of outdoor locations to provide applied navigational challenges. To ensure
competency, students are expected to work independently with the required navigational tools.
Selkirk College is committed to offering Work Integrated Learning opportunities for students where possible, with
the cooperation of partners in our community. Students may provide short-term help on projects that aid these
organizations, while also supporting student learning outcomes. Opportunities that allow students to work with
community partners help to advance applied skills, improve employability, and build student self-confidence/self-
awareness.Learning Resources
Touche, F. (2004). Wilderness navigation handbook. Touche Publishing.
Map 82 F Nelson (1:250 000). 82 F/5 Castlegar – waterproof version - (1:50,000)
Moodle site learn.selkirk.ca Enrolment key provided in first class
The following equipment is required for each field class.
Standard personal field equipment as per SEG Department Policy
30 or 50 cm ruler (clear plastic and 50 cm is preferable)
2 HB pencils (not mechanical) for use on maps
"Rite-in-the-Rain" All-Weather Notebook
Compass with mirror and adjustable declination
Clipboard
GPS enabled TabletDetailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered
1. Introduction to maps.
2. Map limitations; paper vs. digital map projections; latitude/longitude; coordinate system.
3. Selecting appropriate scale. Map scale conversions.
4. Elevation, topographic maps and map reading techniques.
5. Pre-trip planning; making a route plan.
6. Test 1
7. Practical navigation 1
8. Reading Break
9. Practical navigation 2
10. GPS theory
11. Test 2
12. Advanced navigational techniques
13. Emerging technologies
14. School of Environment and Geomatics Conference
15. Final ExamAssessment
| Title | Learning Outcomes | Value |
|---|
| Quizzes (4 in class)* | 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 | 20% |
| Midterm 1 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 11 | 15% |
| Midterm 2 | 5, 6, 7, 10 | 15% |
| Field Labs | 6, 8, 9, 10, 11 | 15% |
| Independent Assignment | 9 | 5% |
| Professionalism | 12 | 5% |
| Final Exam | 1-11 | 25% |
| Total | 100% |
Grading Table
Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table
| Percentage |
Letter Grade |
GPA |
| 90-100 |
A+ |
4.33 |
| 85-89 |
A |
4.00 |
| 80-84 |
A- |
3.67 |
| 76-79 |
B+ |
3.33 |
| 72-75 |
B |
3.00 |
| 68-71 |
B- |
2.67 |
| 64-67 |
C+ |
2.33 |
| 60-63 |
C |
2.00 |
| 55-59 |
C- |
1.67 |
| 50-54 |
P |
1.00 |
| 0-49 |
F |
0.00 |
| |
DNW |
0.00 |
See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.
Disclaimer
Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.