topics for a climber's corner?

[Noel]

topics for a climber\'s corner?

I am presenting at a few climber's corner seminars over the next few months. I do several small groups and midwestern tree conventions every year, and I am finding myself doing about the same presentation every time. I always cover the basics of safety/PPE, climbing systems, climbing gear, etc. My typical audience has a very wide variety of climbers, from expert to beginner. I know a lot of Buzzers have been to that climber's corner that just about puts you to sleep because it is too basic, or the one that leaves you scratching your head because the speaker talks above your head the whole time. I am starting to find the balance, but are there some specific topics that you beginners wish your speaker would cover, or that you experts could always use a little refresher course on? I really like to keep it casual and not too preachy, and I am not at all afraid to say "I don't know", when people ask me tough questions.....obviously I don't know it all. I typically don't use powerpoint, but I'll be getting my first taste of that next month with Mark. Do you like the powerpoint, or would you rather just listen to the presenter? Any input is appreciated, I would love to learn how to really reach my classes in a positive way.

 

[JesseHuffman]

Re: topics for a climber\'s corner?

I did 6 hours this morning with a new company here in town.
Only 4 people. It was exhausting.
I was fortunate enough to have them over here at the house and we used my trees. Power point could be great for alot of the info but in my opinion nothing beats showing by example.
Started with tree inspection and rescue procedures.
Did a demo of the difference between a closed and open system. Throwline and false crotches. Alternating lanyard technique.
After about 2 hours we did a little climbing. I made them use a blakes with no pulley minder before showing some more advanced rigs.
The climbers were way into it the whole time.
The owner and supervisor didnt learn a damned thing. After 6 hours of "preeching ansi" they still told me that the guys wont be tying in on small trees and that the use of gaffs isnt something they plan on stopping.

I made a few friends with the workers and a couple of new enemies in there bosses.

It was a good day.

I think im too emotional for the teaching thing.
Best left to cool cucumbers like Noel.

 

[UrbanTC]

Re: topics for a climber\'s corner?

I think hands on is the way to go. Also, learning and/or a refresher in work position. Like teaching how to use your gear to position yourself to make the cut vs. reaching out with one arm and making a cut, or being in a defensive position when you do not need to.

 

[tomthetreeman]

Re: topics for a climber\'s corner?

Noel, powerpoint is great for short portions of your presentation to drive home points with graphics/visuals, and it helps to break up your talk.

As for ideas for talking points, I think the advances with climbing systems, hitches, pulleys, as well as all of the new descenders, rope brakes, etc, could keep the most diverse group of climbers interested for quite a while.

-Tom

 

[guymayor]

Re: topics for a climber\'s corner?

[ QUOTE ]
Noel, powerpoint is great for short portions of your presentation to drive home points with graphics/visuals, and it helps to break up your talk.

[/ QUOTE ]

Absolutely.

Re talking points, a little biology might go a long way.

Climbing is just a means to the end. Talk tree care.