The AIARE 1 Blended Program is an introduction to avalanche hazard management that adds an additional 8 hours of self-paced online instruction to the traditional 3 day/24 hour course to even further deepen students’ understanding of new avalanche terminology and concepts. The online instruction and resources give students the opportunity to go as in depth as needed, allowing students to individualize their instruction. The increase in total instructional time frees up more face-to-face classroom and field time to focus on skills development, giving students more time in the field working with an instructor.
Through a relevant and engaging assignment, students will develop a basic understanding of avalanche terminology, identifying avalanche terrain, and how the mountain snowpack forms. Knowledge quizzes allow students to check their understanding to be as prepared to take the most away from their face- to-face instruction. They will also learn how to apply the information provided by forecast centers to their trip plans, allowing for more practice planning trips during a course.
Students can expect to develop a grounding in how to prepare for and carry out a trip, to understand basic decision making while in the field, and to learn rescue techniques required to find and dig up a buried person (if an avalanche occurs and someone in the party is caught).
Student learning outcomes
At the end of the AIARE 1 course the student should be able to:
· Plan and prepare for travel in avalanche terrain.
· Recognize avalanche terrain.
· Describe a basic framework for making decisions in avalanche terrain.
· Learn and apply effective companion rescue.
Instructional sessions
(32 hours including online, classroom and field instruction) :
1. Avalanche Forecast Tracking Assignment
Students will be introduced to the following:
· Types and characteristics of avalanches
· Avalanche motion
· Size classification
· The mountain snowpack: an introduction to metamorphism and layering
In addition students will practice gathering information and planning for observations covering:
· Avalanche danger factors or “Red Flags”
· Observation checklist
· Avalanche danger scale
2. Relating Forecast History to New Avalanche Understanding
· Relate forecast tracking assignment to travel preparation
· Review avalanche character, terrain and snowpack
3. Observations and Information Gathering
· Field observation techniques
· Snowpack tests: rutschblock, compression test
· Avalanche danger factors or “Red Flags”
· Observation checklist
· Avalanche danger scale
4. Trip Planning and Preparation
· Avalanche terrain recognition, assessment, and selection
· Route finding and travel techniques
· Decision making and Human Factors
5. Companion Rescue and Equipment
| AIARE Blended L1 | $375.00 |