NAV 1000 - Basics of Land Navigation

Open

Aug 14

Written By The Verdant Compass Institute

(1) Enrollment Requirements: None (Open)

(2) Duration: 3 hours

(3) Format: Classroom

(4) Course Description: This introductory seminar provides the foundational mechanics of analog spatial awareness, establishing a functional baseline for wilderness travel without reliance on satellite-based GPS systems. Instruction focuses systematically on map interpretation, contour analysis, and basic lensatic or baseplate compass operations. Participants will study the methodologies required to identify prominent terrain features, calculate scale-to-distance ratios, and obtain azimuths to establish location orientation. This course is designed specifically for individuals with little to no prior experience in orienteering or land navigation.

(5) Terminal Learning Objectives (TLO):

Participants will be able to:

TLO 1: Utilize a topographic map, compass, and protractor to accurately plot a designated position under classroom conditions.
TLO 2: Identify and distinguish terrain features on a standard USGS topographic map.
TLO 3: Evaluate variable terrain contours to forecast elevation changes along a simulated route.

(6) Course Outline:

Phase I — Introduction & Conceptual Frameworks (1 Hour)
- Instruction: Introduction to maps, marginal information, coordinate systems, and contour lines.
- Key Topics: Map reading, relief identification, terrain features, map scaling.
Phase II — Gear Familiarization & Plotting (1 Hour)
- Instruction: Introduction to compasses and protractors.
- Key Topics: Lensatic compass, baseplate compass, protractor, plotting, calculation of distance, map orientation.
Phase III — Practical Exercise (1 Hour)
- Practical Application: Hands-on compass work, orientation of maps, index error correction, and calculation of distance.
- Key Topics: Route planning.

(7) Completion & Assessment Requirements:

This course is informational or experiential and does not carry a formal assessment. Credit is awarded based on attendance, participation, and adherence to the Code of Conduct.

(8) Awarded Certificates & Identifiers: