Course curriculum

  • 1

    Introduction: Earth, Direction & Map Basics

    • Safety Warning, CE Information, Disclaimers

    • Course Introduction; the Earth & Direction

    • Understanding Maps

    • Topography & Topographic Lines

    • Topography Maps vs The Real World
  • 2

    Describing Position: Coordinates & Datums

    • Communicating Location & Coordinates

    • Latitude & Longitude Use and Formats

    • UTM Coordinates

    • The Importance of Datum

    • USNG Coordinates
  • 3

    Plotting & Reading Coordinates

    • Basics of Reading & Plotting UTM Coordinates

    • Plotting & Reading UTM on map
  • 4

    Navigation Tools: Compass & GPS Receiver

    • Compass Basics & Setting Declination

    • Compass skills: Orienting a Map, Taking & Shooting Bearings

    • Triangulation of Position

    • Triangulation (additional demonstration in office)

    • Satellite Navigation: using GPS and similar technologies
  • 5

    Routefinding Examples

    • Using Compass Bearings in a SAR Mission

    • Route Planning - Dealing with Inherent Uncertainty

    • Route Finding Methods & Examples

    • A More Complex Trip Plan
  • 6

    Practice & Supplemental Materials; Maps for Quiz

    • Howardsville Map

    • Falls Creek Map

    • Coal Bank Map

    • City Reservoir Map

    • USGS_LandNavManual

    • NTSB_MSP_AAR0907

    • US Military Land Nav Field Manual

    • Supplemental Resources and Materials; Creative Commons Image Citations

    • Skill Development Practice

    • ITU Phonetic Alphabet

    • Coordinate Conversion Websites

  • 7

    Review Quiz

    • Exam