absolutely
– Last Updated: May-23-08 10:29 AM EST –
and when I actually took the exam that's what I did---I told them about my safety lecture which covers all that stuff prior to launching into the lost person scenario---incidently I took a Guides Course in preparation for the exam which spent a lot of time on navigation, actual paddling and rescue techniques including practice both in a pool and on the water but only about 15--20 minutes on the lost person scenario---which is the one that trip most canidates up---are you folks at MIKO going to cover that in the course you mentioned and assuming you are, how do you guys handle it?
A thanks for all the help
despite its controversial nature, this has all been very helpful. it has allowed me to understand the thought process that the examiners are looking for. I recently graduated with a degree in adventure education leadership and have been working as a licensed rafting guide for the past four years. I have had lots of hands on experience leading trips and allowing me to experience/understand a good deal of risk/group management. My brain functions to mitigate risk and through experience with emergency situations, i know that my mind and body function much differently in the field than in an office “lost person scenario”. Adrenaline rushes allowing my mind to think clearly and act quickly in the essence of time. I act and do, so it is very hard for me to convey my actions to examiners during an oral test. It is very helpful to see the types of things that an examiner is wanting me to communicate.
Also, from previous whitewater guiding experience, there was a minimum amount of experience to get a raft guide licence. I did what i had to do to get the license so i could have a job with the company and i continued to go on fun runs so I could practice my skills until i did feel confident enough in my skills to guide customers. Even still i dont think there is a substitute to experience that you gain while guiding customers professionally. A professional demeanor develops and becomes second nature when you are guiding for the specific activity time after time. I believe you have to be in the role in order to gain further skill and professional experience. Perhaps you guide with a more experienced co-guide or lead guide when you start off but i think you still need that experience of being in charge of a group.
Of course i agree that there are certain skills and a way of thinking that every guide must have but i think it is hard to reproduce unless you are in the field, you are using all of your senses, and you are in the moment. The guide test is what it is, and i wanted to see if i was on track or not and see where i went wrong in an office setting.
once again, everyone has been helpful and i deeply appreciate it. I also realize that it is important to have prudent, responsible, and experienced guides leading inexperienced groups on the water. thanks again!