Leader: Dr J O'Connor (Peninsula)

Offered

Gippsland First semester 2008 (Day)
Singapore First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Peninsula First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit examines aquatic education in a variety of coastal, inland and closed aquatic environments. Australia's climate and diverse environments shape different social, cultural and environmental understandings associated with aquatis. Aquatic education is therefore explored within a socio-ecological framework that provides students with a critical understanding of education, risk management and programming practices. Students will be presented with the opportunity to gain an approved aquatic education certification within the semester period as well as participate in a range of experiences that further refine practice across diverse aquatic teaching contexts.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. critique the provision of aquatic education within a broader socio-ecological framework;
2. document their observations and evaluations with respect to education, risk management, programming and user groups at a variety of venues;
3. demonstrate effective and safe group teaching practices for a variety of participants in a practical setting;
4. teach, exhibit and describe effective swimming, survival and rescue techniques using a range of teaching approaches in closed and open water environments;
5. explain key elements of successful aquatic centre management practices;
6. describe various activities and games that can be used for different aquatic user groups and;
7. locate aquatic education and its role within the broader aquatic recreation and leisure industry.

Assessment

Assessment task 1 (2000 words): 50%
Assessment task 2 (2000 words): 50%
required attendance at tutorials/practicals/laboratories and the successful completion of at least one of: AUSTSWIM Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety; Bronze medallion, Surf Bronze, Pool Lifeguard within the semester period.

Contact hours

3 contact hours per week or equivalent for the semester where field trip days are required, 9 hours private study including readings, completions of set tasks and self-directed learning