On-Demand Field Guide Course

Description

Study Field Guiding On Your Schedule

The On-Demand Field Guide Course offers a flexible and engaging learning experience for individuals passionate about nature and wildlife. Designed to fit your schedule, this online course lets you study at your own pace while covering all the essentials for the FGASA Nature Site Guide qualification.

Learning Objectives

This course encompasses all 17 FGASA modules, including:

• Ecology
• Animal behaviour
• Conservation management
• Botany and grasses
• And much more

By the end, participants will be equipped with the theoretical knowledge needed to pursue their FGASA (NQF2) qualification.

Course Format and Structure

Flexible Learning: Study on-demand with pre-recorded lectures, downloadable lessons, and workbook support. Start anytime.

Two Platforms: Access learning materials via EcoTraining’s intuitive platforms. Access course materials 24/7.

Total Duration: Approximately 63 hours, including 30 hours of video content. Most students complete the course in 7-9 weeks.

Access Period: Students have access to the EcoTraining eLearning platform for 1 year.

Fee: The fee includes FGASA registration and the first exam attempt.

Our field guide courses fit your schedule and give you a complete, easy-to-follow education.

Modules and Lessons

The course covers 17 modules, including:

• Introduction to guiding in the natural environment
• Creating a guided nature experience
• Geology
• Basic ecology
• Weather and Climate
• Introduction to the biomes of southern Africa
• Botany and Grasses
• Animal behaviour (incl. Tracks)
• Mammals
• Birds
• Arthropods
• Reptiles
• Astronomy
• Amphibians
• Basix taxonomy
• Fish
• Conservation management and historical human habitation

Course Features

Explore the rich curriculum of EcoTraining’s field guide courses and gain a deeper understanding of the natural world.

• Access to comprehensive FGASA-approved content.
• Certificate of completion.
• Eligibility to write FGASA theory exams online.
• Students will get access to the FGASA Campus platform, where they must complete a digital workbook.

Course Specific Details

In this course, you’ll also benefit from the following:

• Short quizzes after each module 
• Access to a mock exam to assist students with preparation for the official exam 
• Option to schedule Q&A sessions with a qualified lecturer 
• Technical support
• Student support
• Online theory exam after completion of the course (FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) exam)

Instructors and Expertise

Our expert instructors bring decades of hands-on field guide experience:

David Havemann
David’s career spans roles as a nature conservationist, environmental educator, and head instructor at EcoTraining’s Selati camp.

Richard Davies
With over a decade of guiding experience, Richard’s passion for nature and education shines in every lecture.

Michael Anderson
Mike’s international guiding background and birding expertise make him an invaluable mentor for students.

Tayla McCurdy
With guiding qualifications in South Africa and Zambia, Tayla brings a global perspective to guiding and mentoring.

Certification and Accreditation

• Upon course completion and final exam, students achieve the FGASA theory component of the Field Guide (NQF2) course. Certificates are issued 6-8 weeks post-exam.
  Students must do the practical section for full qualification.
  Once the On-Demand course is completed, participants qualify for a discounted rate if they do the practical section with EcoTraining (35-Day Field Guide Practical).

  Things to note

  • This is a theory section only – Must do practical to gain full NQF2 qualification.