Over the past few years, there has been a step change in the capability of handheld and wearable GPS devices. In addition, the improvement in the satellite constellations together with embedded device navigation technologies, improved endurance, and integration with smartphone apps is nothing short of transformational. This course is designed for those wanting to use a handheld or wearable GPS device to locate in an emergency, for basic navigation, and learn more how to exploit this awesome technology. It is based on modern Garmin handhelds and wearables, because these are the leading devices, have the greatest range of both cost-free and paid-for maps together with features specifically designed for a wide range of summer and winter outdoor activities. However, the principles can be applied to other handheld and wearable devices, although they are likely to be much less capable.

The course begins by outlining some GPS fundamentals and the key technological changes that have so markedly improved their capability. Most of the training focuses on the 6 core GPS skills applicable to outdoor navigation. First, you need to know how to prepare and operate your GPS device, including thinking about maps and batteries. Then we move on to location, using both coordinates and the map screen, and tracking. Next, waypoints are introduced, and how to mark and create them. The core of the training is about basic navigation. In other words, navigating from where we are either to a waypoint, to coordinates or by selecting a destination point on the devices’ digital map. We will cover both classic “direct” navigation and “active” navigation, the ability for the device to direct you along paths and tracks according to your chosen activity. Next, we will look at mini routes planned on the device. Finally, we’ll look at track-back (retracing steps) and routing back to the start point. If time permits, we will cover the ability to plan a route using a third-party app, such as OutdoorActive, the automatic transfer from the app to the wearable or handheld device, then following the turn-by-turn directions on the device (illustrated above). In addition, we will look at tracking via a smartphone together with integrating satellite tracking and messaging technology with your GPS device. A set of course notes is available. If you own a Garmin handheld or wearable device, bring it along. If it’s a modern one, so much the better. If you don’t own a device, do not buy one now, wait until you’ve completed the course, and you’ll know what’s best for you. In any event, all participants will have the opportunity to borrow and use one of the latest Garmin handhelds for the duration of the course, and see and handle a wide variety of different, current handhelds and wearables.

Please bring suitable outdoor kit for hill walking in the Peak District. A packed meal (optional as there is a café on-site). A GPS handheld is provided for each course member for the duration of the course but bring your smartphone and any GPS handheld or wearable that you currently use.

The course will be delivered by Rick Shearer. I have been leading groups in hills and mountains, in Britain and Internationally, both in summer and winter conditions for the past 30 years. In addition, for the past 15 years I have also been training outdoor navigators and leaders in how to use a GPS device safely and effectively to locate and navigate outdoors. Initially, this was using conventional handheld GPS units, the only available device then and, more recently, with wearable devices and smartphones using an appropriate app. Over 700 people have attended one or more of my courses. As a member of my local MRT, I also train the Team to use GPS devices in the challenging circumstances they sometimes face.

Please contact Rick directly with enquiries and bookings on 07967 358691 or via email rick.shearer@outlook.com

Upon completion, please allow 2 weeks for this workshop to be automatically added to your CPD record on CMS. You do not need to add it manually yourself. 

Start

11/11/2023 09:00

End

11/11/2023 16:30

Total Days

1

Maximum Bookings

8

Bookings

2

Venue

Poole's Cavern

Town

Buxton

County

Derbyshire

Postcode

SK17 9DH

Country

United Kingdom

Latitude

53.24991

Longitude

-1.92574

Name

BAIML

Phone

07967 358691

Email