Skagit Valley College

Catalog Course Search Details

 Course Title:   Introduction to Kayaking

 Title Abbreviation:   INTRO TO KAYAKING

 Department:    PE

 Course #:    167

 Credits:    1

 Variable:     Yes

 IUs:    1.5

 CIP:    310501

 EPC:    n/a

 REV:    2018


 Course Description  

This course will use lectures, videos, and hands-on training in a pool, lake, or bay to safely teach basic kayak handling skills. These skills are easy and fun to learn; you will need only to be in good health and be able to swim. Students will be required to have or purchase water shoes and synthetic long sleeve top. Class size limited to eight students.

 Prerequisite  

None

Additional Course Details

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 0

Lab: 22

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0


Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Academic N/A  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Other Institution Equivalencies Table
Institution Course # Remarks
N/A

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Describe and identify types of kayaks, launch and land the boat safely, and perform basic paddling strokes and turns.
  2. The student will also be able to select appropriate equipment for the conditions, and recognize obvious hazards to safe kayaking.
  3. Safely re-enter a kayak after a wet exit in open water.
  4. Assist another kayaker in re-entering his or her craft in open water.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

2. Critical Thinking

Definition: The ability to think critically about the nature of knowledge within a discipline and about the ways in which that knowledge is constructed and validated and to be sensitive to the ways these processes often vary among disciplines.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
2.1 Identify and express concepts, terms, and facts related to a specific discipline.

6. Individual Awareness & Responsibility

Definition: Understanding, managing, and taking responsibility for one’s learning and behavior in varied and changing environments.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
6.1 Identify ethical and healthy choices and apply these personally, socially, academically, and professionally.

Course Contents

  1. Topics to be covered during class: Basics of kayaking - types of boats, safety, equipment, and navigation.
  2. Students will have a chance to try out several different boats in both fresh water and salt water, and make a short trip in the local area.
    • Vocabulary unique to kayaking
    • Judging, using, and avoiding currents
    • Rudiments of navigation, nautical charts
    • Entering, launching, and landing the kayak
    • Evaluating weather, sea, and traffic conditions with regard to hazards
    • Recognizing underwater terrain by wave action, seaweed, water color
    • Dealing with emergencies
    • Safety equipment
    • Basic paddle strokes - turning, bracing
    • How to gain further education/experience