Orienteering (Scoutcraft)
Encyclopedia
Orienteering is a longtime component of Scouting programs such as the Boy Scouts of America
and other Scouting groups. The BSA first class rank requires that scouts complete a one mile orienteering course by using a map and compass . The scout must also measure the height of objects, such as trees, using simple trigonometry
. Although some troops tend to emphasize the use of compass bearings and pacing, orienteering actually involves a variety of skills, including map reading and route solving.
and introduces scouts to the sport of orienteering
that arose in Europe during the early 20th century. After developing the basic Scoutcraft
skills of map and compass, Scouts are required to participate in several competitive style orienteering course. They must then design their own course, and teach orienteering skills to other members of their troop. The exact requirements have changed over the years. At one time, the merit badge was called "Pathfinding" and was required for Eagle.
Boy Scouts of America
The Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with over 4.5 million youth members in its age-related divisions...
and other Scouting groups. The BSA first class rank requires that scouts complete a one mile orienteering course by using a map and compass . The scout must also measure the height of objects, such as trees, using simple trigonometry
Trigonometry
Trigonometry is a branch of mathematics that studies triangles and the relationships between their sides and the angles between these sides. Trigonometry defines the trigonometric functions, which describe those relationships and have applicability to cyclical phenomena, such as waves...
. Although some troops tend to emphasize the use of compass bearings and pacing, orienteering actually involves a variety of skills, including map reading and route solving.
Merit badge
In 1974, the orienteering merit badge was introduced. This badge has been developed in collaboration with the US Orienteering FederationUnited States Orienteering Federation
United States Orienteering Federation or USOF is the national governing body for orienteering in the United States. The group announced in August 2010 that it will change its public-facing name to Orienteering USA. It is recognized by the International Orienteering Federation and the United States...
and introduces scouts to the sport of orienteering
Orienteering
Orienteering is a family of sports that requires navigational skills using a map and compass to navigate from point to point in diverse and usually unfamiliar terrain, and normally moving at speed. Participants are given a topographical map, usually a specially prepared orienteering map, which they...
that arose in Europe during the early 20th century. After developing the basic Scoutcraft
Scoutcraft
Scoutcraft is a term used to cover a variety of woodcraft knowledge and skills required by people seeking to venture into wild country and sustain themselves independently. The term has been adopted by Scouting organizations to reflect skills and knowledge which are felt to be a core part of the...
skills of map and compass, Scouts are required to participate in several competitive style orienteering course. They must then design their own course, and teach orienteering skills to other members of their troop. The exact requirements have changed over the years. At one time, the merit badge was called "Pathfinding" and was required for Eagle.