This study attempts to measure confidence and proficiency in the outdoors.  You may choose not to answer any questions you aren't comfortable with.  Data collected from this survey will only be used for statistical purposes. Your participation is completely voluntary and there are no penalties for not participating.

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1. In order for us to be able to match your initial responses with your post-trip/class responses we need a way to identify you from your classmates.  Please write in the last 4 digits of your Student ID#.  Your ID will not be linked to any of your responses, please be as honest as you can in your question assessment.

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2. In thinking about outdoor backcountry/wildland settings, please click on the drop down menus for each item and respond concerning your perceived proficiency (skill) and confidence to:

  Perceived Proficiency or Skill Perceived Confidence
make decisions on behalf of a group
overcome personal obstacles (e.g., foot blisters) that may occur
lead a group activity to get to know each other
lead a group discussion
handle difficult group dynamic conditions (e.g., personality conflicts)
address unique gender concerns
lead a discussion on Leave No Trace principles
show how to practice Leave No Trace principles
use a campstove for cooking
build a campfire without the use of lighter fuel or firesticks
set up a group camping area
plan group meals
include nutrient balanced considerations in food rations
help others select appropriate clothing
help others use equipment correctly
accurately observe changing weather conditions
handle severe weather conditions (e.g., lightning in the area)
maintain a sanitary group camp setting
ensure clean drinking water
help a group cross over moving water (e.g., a mountain stream)
backpack on steep and rocky terrain
create a risk management plan for a group
manage natural environment risks (e.g., wildlife threats)
read a contour map to navigate
use a compass to navigate 
perform emergency first aid
create an outdoor emergency shelter
talk about current environmental issues that link an activity being participated in with a natural resource (e.g., kayaking and water pollution)
briefly introduce some of the plants/animals/history of the area where groups are taken
communicate concerns about safety to a group
prepare a comprehensive trip plan for a group
change your travel plans if conditions (e.g., inclement weather) dictate such
lead a group discussion about an activity just completed
help a group identify how backcountry travel may be related to other aspects of life

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3. How much experience do you have recreating in outdoor backcountry/wildland settings?

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4. Do you currently or have you ever worked for an organization where you led or co-led people on trips/ventures to backcountry/wildland settings?

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5. Overall, how many years of paid or volunteer experience do you have as an outdoor leader whether leading participants in backcountry/wildland settings or not?  Note: Please use numerals in your response (e.g., 0, .5, 1).

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6. What organizations (e.g., Scouts, summer camp) have you worked for as an outdoor leader volunteer or for pay?  Skip to Question #7 if you have no work experience as an outdoor leader.

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7. Do you intend to pursue a job following graduation where you will be expected to lead/co-lead backcountry/wildland setting activities and/or expeditions?

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8. How old are you?  Please write in your age (e.g., 20).

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9. What is your gender?

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10. Did you grow up in a single parent household?

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