OET(Outdoor Emergency Transportation)

Guidelines & Evaluation Manual

Initial Release Dec 2021Version 1.5

Table of Contents

● Introduction . . . . . . . . . .2● Who’s Who in OET. . . . . . . . .2● OET Training Progression Process . . . . . .5● Fundamentals of Patroller Ski/Ride Skills and Toboggan Skills . .6

● Alpine Senior Patroller Standards for Fundamental OET Skills . .7● Senior Evaluation Scoring Process . . . . . .10● What to Expect on Senior Exam Day . . . . . .12

○ Components of the Senior Patroller Evaluation . . .12○ Senior OET Evaluation Format . . . . . .13

● Trainer-Evaluator Testing Criteria . . . . . .14○ Translate it to Telemark Skiing . . . . . .15○ Translate it to Snowboarding . . . . . .15

● TE Assessment Criteria for Performance and Demos . . .16● Trainer Evaluator Senior Evaluation Scoring Process . . .18● Prerequisite for becoming a Trainer-Evaluator . . . .20● OET Teaching Methods . . . . . . . .22

○ OET Teaching Philosophy . . . . . .22○ ADAPT . . . . . . . . .23○ PISE . . . . . . . . . .23○ Demo Accuracy . . . . . . . .24

● Terrain Selection Considerations for OET Senior Events . . .25● NSP Easter Division Online Moodle School . . . . .27● What to Expect on TE Evaluation Weekend . . . . .28

● General OET Toboggan Instructor Refresher Guidelines . . .29● Helpful Information and Links . . . . . . .31

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OET Program Mission StatementOET’s mission is to create an environment of learning that elevates the skills, ability,and techniques needed to safely transport guests to a higher level of care.

IntroductionThis manual is designed to provide an overview of the Eastern Division OutdoorEmergency Transportation (OET) program. The OET education and credentialingprocess follows this basic track:

Alpine Patroller → Senior → Toboggan Instructor → Regional Staff →Trainer-Evaluator → Division Staff → Steering Committee → Supervisor

This manual describes the process details and all prerequisites for each level,guidelines for training, administering OET Clinics which lead to Evaluations.

Who’s Who in OET?National OET Program Director - Marc Barlage oversees and coordinates DivisionSupervisors and the entire national OET Program.

Division Supervisor - Jim O’Connor oversees Division OET programs, chairs theOET Steering Committee, approves new Toboggan Instructors. Follow the links foreach level of management to the Eastern Division OET Web page for the mostup-to-date documents.

Steering Committee is composed of a 12 member group distributed throughout thedivision and led by the OET Supervisor. Steering members administer Division OETprograms, Patroller Schools, Toboggan Instructor Training, TE Training, as well asprogram quality assurance.

Current Steering Committee Members:Jim O’Connor (EMARI)Matt Nebzydoski (EPA)Denice Kaus (Western NY)Greg Boberg (Western NY)Bill Cline (Western APP)Bart Gabler (Western APP)Dave Smith (EMARI)

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Jane Williams (EMARI/Women’s Program Supervisor)Don Mills (Southern VT)Teigh Southworth (Northern VT)Orest Ohar (NH)Jon Wilson (Central NY)Wayne Arsenault (Maine & Eastern Division Board Liaison)

Division OET Staff - Typically made up of 24 individuals spread out among the 15regions that make up the division. OET Staff ensures that all OET programsinvolving instruction and evaluation are conducted safely and fairly, consistent withthe criteria established by NSP and Eastern Division. The OET Steering Committeeappoints OET Staff members. Division OET Staff members rotate every season, forthe latest list of members, visit the Eastern Division OET web page to download themost current document.

Regional Advisors - known as RAs for short, oversee OET programs in theirrespective regions, assist in bringing division initiatives to the Regional level, plan andadministrate Senior program events and evaluations, and ensure regional tobogganinstructors and trainer evaluators maintain certification requirements. Click todownload a Comprehensive Job Description.

Instructor Trainers (ITs) are in charge of educational Quality Assurance. The groupnumbers approximately 100 division-wide. In addition to QA, these individuals areresponsible for Training toboggan Instructors and TEs. They are appointed by theDivision Supervisor and must be a TE in good standing as a prerequisite.

Trainer Evaluators (TEs) are Regional Staff members selected by Regional OETAdvisors. The group numbers approximately 250 individuals and is responsible fortraining and evaluating Senior Candidates. To become a TE, individuals must beAlpine Seniors, a Toboggan Instructor, and must be trained and recommended bytheir RA or the Regional OET Staff.

Toboggan Instructors - This group numbers approximately 850. They provide OETToboggan Handling instruction at local mountains. The prerequisite for becoming anOET Toboggan Instructor is attending an Instructor Development Course andentering the OET mentoring program.

Senior Alpine Patroller - This is NSP's all-around leadership credential attained bytesting and participating in educational courses which shows a broad understandingof the profession of Ski Patrolling. To attain the Senior level, Alpine Patrollersparticipate in training programs with their Regional OEC and OET Staffs. MostPatrollers focus on one evaluation discipline at a time as well as taking educational

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electives. Alpine Senior Patroller is awarded, after successfully testing at theperformance level of mastery in Skiing/Riding, Patroller Skills, TobogganTransportation, and an OEC proficiency as an emergency medical manager. To learndetails about the NSP Senior Program, visit the NSP.ORG webpage titled: SeniorProgram. Alternatively, the Eastern Division also maintains a web page known asSenior Program.

Alpine Patroller - This is the NSP membership classification, which designates thata patroller has achieved the skill necessary to safely transport injured patients on allthe slopes of their local mountain. Local Patrol Directors and their designeesdetermine the skill level required to achieve the Alpine Patroller classification. SeniorCandidates must have a minimum of one full season as an Alpine Patroller to qualifyfor Senior level testing. Alpine Patrollers can download a Senior CandidateApplication form from the Eastern Division website (two forms will be required, onefor OET Senior and another for OEC Senior).

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OET Training Progression Process

1. Alpine Patroller - All new patrollers achieving Alpine status at their homemountain will meet local requirements for OET based on terrain and localprotocols.

⬇2. Senior Patroller - Senior OET requires passing a minimum of two different

evaluations held at the Region level. “Senior” is a National designation thatrecognizes advanced ski/ride and toboggan handling skills and first aidmanagement. Additional details can be found later in this manual. Click todownload a Senior Application.

⬇3. Toboggan Instructors - are typically Senior patrollers (but not always) who

have demonstrated advanced skill as an Instructor and completed the requiredinstructor mentoring process. Achieving Toboggan Instructor and itsprerequisite, the Instructor Development Course, are both Senior electives.Click to review the Instructor Mentoring Process.

⬇4. Trainer-Evaluator (TEs) are experienced toboggan instructors with excellent

ski/ride and toboggan skills, strong knowledge of ski/ride technique andinstruction, ability to demo Senior level ski/ride techniques/skills, knowledge ofSenior Exam terrain and scoring. TE Trainees must be mentored by RegionalOET Advisors, pass a 2-day evaluation at Patroller School, and recertify theirposition every three years. Click to download Requirements for TE.

⬇5. Instructor Trainer - Are appointed by the Division Supervisor and are

responsible for training and mentoring toboggan instructors and TEs.

⬇6. Division Staff/Steering/Supervisor - Are experienced instructors and trainers

selected from across the Division to represent Regions and provide leadershipand guidance in their respective roles.

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Fundamentals of Patroller Ski/Ride Skills andToboggan Skills

OET requires safe toboggan handling and accomplished ski skills to patrol all areasof a resort, generate confidence among the skiing public, and transport injuredpatients. These skills require training and practice to learn and master. Theinformation below will help guide you toward the level of skill needed to succeed as apatroller. Local instructors, TE’s, Patroller Schools, and our partnership with PSIAcan all assist a patroller to attain their improvement goals.

Ski/Ride Fundamentals

Eastern Division OET utilizes the “5 Fundamentals” described by PSIA/AASI in theAlpine Technical Manual to guide our coaching. It allows for consistency betweenNSP instructors and our partners in PSIA who assist in training patrollers to improvetheir ski/ride skills.

What are the “Five Fundamentals” of Skiing?1. Control the relationship of the Center of Mass to the base of support to direct

pressure along the length of the skis.2. Control pressure from ski to ski and direct pressure toward the outside ski.3. Control edge angles through a combination of inclination and angulation.4. Control the skis’ rotation with leg rotation, separate from the upper body.5. Regulate the magnitude of pressure created through ski/snow interaction.

What are the “Six Fundamentals” of Snowboarding?1. Control the relationship of the center of mass to the base of support to direct

pressure along the length of the board.2. Control the relationship of the center of mass to the base of support to direct

pressure along the width of the board.3. Control the magnitude of pressure created through the board/surface

interaction.4. Control the board's pivot through flexion/extension and rotation of the body.5. Control the board's tilt through a combination of inclination and angulation.6. Control torsional flex of the board using flexion/extension and rotation of the

body.

Link to a webinar on AASI snowboard fundamentals

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Alpine Senior Patroller Standards for FundamentalOET Skills

The standard description below matches NSP’s and Eastern Division OET’sexpectations for Senior Evaluation.

Senior Short Turn

Location:Most DifficultGroomed

Size:Approx. 15’“One GroomerTrack” wide

● Ski performance is as carved as possible given terrain, conditions, and skidesign. Pressure is directed along the length of the skis and toward theoutside ski.

● Consistent tempo is maintained throughout the run.● Both ski edges are engaged early and throughout the turn.● The skis are generally parallel with similar edge angles.● https://youtu.be/t0vs-1g61hE?t=79 Speed is controlled throughout the run

with turn shape.● Center of Mass remains over the base of support. Fore/aft pressure control

is managed through proportional flexion and extension of all joints.● The torso remains stable and disciplined.● These are not short swing turns.

Senior MediumTurn

Location:More/MostDifficult/Groomed15’+ “Two GroomerTracks” wide

● See short turn criteria.● Candidate’s center of mass remains over the base of support while

directing pressure along the length of the skis and toward the outside ski.● Appropriate adjustments to inclination and angulation are made to

accommodate turn size.

Senior Long Turn

Location:MoreDifficult/Groomed30’+ “ThreeGroomer Tracks”

● The Candidate’s center of mass remains over the base of support whiledirecting pressure along the length of the skis and toward the outside ski.

● Appropriate adjustments to inclination and angulation are made toaccommodate turn size.

● Turn shapes are arcs, not linked traverses.● Skis leave mostly clean “railroad tracks.”

AssessmentActivity --Hockey Stop

Location:Most or moredifficult groomed.

The purpose of this assessment task is to assist the candidate and examiner indetermining the ability of the senior candidate to do the following in the contextof their skiing and toboggan skills and is designed to highlight an understandingof the Five Fundamentals:

● Pivot, turn, and steer the lower body separate from the upper body.● Demonstrate the ability to manage “slip and grip” of the ski edges

utilizing the lower body through a combination of inclination andangulation.

● Pivot the skis within a fall line corridor

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Ski Ability

Location:Most DifficultMogul/Crud

Clip #2 Exemplary

● Linked turns, demonstrating the ability to adapt to changing snow andterrain.

● Speed is controlled and maintained.● Shape of the turn is made with skis turning more than the upper body.● Ski/Snow contact in all-terrain is maintained through progressive flexion

and extension of ankles, knees, and hips.● Upper body remains stable with little effect from lower-body movements.

Unloaded Toboggan

Location:Most difficultMoguled whenavailable

● Selects an appropriate route.● Uses short swing turns with an emphasis on effective pivots, as

appropriate.● Demonstrates the use of skill maneuvers, as appropriate.● Performs effective emergency stop, if asked.● Ensures minimal slipping or bouncing the toboggan.● Shows Awareness of trail merge & the skiing public.

Does the candidate safely and efficiently control the toboggan to the accident site?

Loaded Toboggan

Location:Most DifficultMoguled whenavailable

LT outside Bumps

● Selects an appropriate route.● Controls decent without abrupt starts and stops by either chain brake,

skill maneuvers, or both.● Demonstrates the use of skill maneuvers as appropriate.● Effective communication (verbal and non-verbal) with patient and Tail

Roper.● Snowboarders can face uphill or downhill, looking in the direction they

are traveling.

Does the candidate safely and effectively control the loaded toboggan while monitoring thepatient?

Tail Rope/LoadedToboggan

Location:Most DifficultMoguled whenavailable

● Strives for the optimal and safest position behind the toboggan.● Effectively manages the rope.● Demonstrates the use of skill maneuvers without interruption to the front

operator.● Anticipates the front operator’s direction changes and maneuvers.

Assists with braking activity - either planned or for an emergency stop.● Snowboarders should predominantly maintain a heel side orientation

through the entire demonstration - no transitions required orrecommended.

Does the candidate safely and effectively manage the tail rope, using appropriate skillmaneuvers, while maintaining an optimal position for braking or an emergency stop?

Snow Plow

Location:Most difficultMoguled whenavailable)

● Demonstrates consistent speed in all directions and terrain changes.● Stops in a snowplow position (skiing) or with a hockey stop maneuver.● Snowboarders will maintain the heel side throughout the entire

demonstration.

Does the candidate maintain effective movement by slipping the edge(s) without railingduring terrain changes and performs a controlled stop at the end?

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Sideslip

Location:Most difficultMoguled whenavailable

● Demonstrates effective use of edges.● Demonstrates consistent speed.● Snowboarders must show both heel and toe side skills.

Does the candidate maintain effective movement by slipping the edge(s) in eitherdirection without traversing.

Equipment Carry

Location:More Difficult

● Demonstrates control.● Adapts to terrain changes.● Equipment held securely.● Maintains awareness of trail merges and skiing public.

Does the candidate demonstrate confidence and ability in changing snow surfaces andterrain with a variety of turns and skill maneuvers?

Kick Turn or StaticDirection Change

Location:More difficultMoguled or groomed

● Static direction change carried out by lifting and rotating one ski andthen the other ski to match. Skiers will end facing the oppositedirection horizontal to the fall line.

● An alternate change of direction may be performed by a quick “wedgeand match” maneuver while maintaining a minimum fall linemovement.

● Snowboarders may perform a “Jump Turn” or “ATM 180” whilemaintaining a minimum fall line movement.

Transition

Location:Most difficult moguled /smooth and moredifficult)

● Maintain narrow fall line descent.● Changes direction from a side slip on one side to a side slip on the

other. Maintaining a fall line descent and consistent speed.● Snowboard specific: consistent speed during direction change going

from one braking edge to other while spinning the board. (ATM180)

Does the candidate maintain consistent speed with braking edge(s) on the snow whilechanging direction and not deviating from the "fall line" corridor?

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Senior Evaluation Scoring ProcessCandidates will be expected to perform at a SATISFACTORY level or higher oneach skill element.

● Essential Elements were not observed or not present.● Essential elements are beginning to appear.● Essential elements appear, but not with consistency.● Essential elements appear frequently, at a satisfactory level.● Essential elements appear consistently above the required level.● Essential elements appear continuously, at a superior level.

The scoring system displayed above is meant to be an objective-based reminder toevaluators who judge Senior tasks, elements, and activities.

How effectively does the Senior Candidate display the skills being testedagainst the standard for each activity?

TEs mark their scorecards using this scale to pass those who are observedperforming the essential elements at a SATISFACTORY level or higher. It defines thelevel of performance mastery and skill understanding, which is different from basicPatrollers.

The videos embedded in this document, as well as the personalized training thatSenior Candidates receive from their respective Regional OET Programs, aredesigned to provide an understanding of the difference between basic patrollers andthe senior level required to become an Alpine Senior Patroller.

Think of the Senior Evaluation scoring as an intuitive guide for recognizing whetherperformance indicators appear at the Senior Level of Standard:

● Not present (not Senior)● Beginning to appear (not Senior)● Not yet consistent (not Senior)● Satisfactory Senior level● Consistent Senior level● Fully mastered Senior level (possibly TE level)

The scorecard is set up with the elements showing bulleted performance indicators.Scores are recorded for each assessment element. Determining a successful PASSfor a Senior Candidate requires performing all the elements, attaining scores of“satisfactory” or higher for each performance indicator.

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What to Expect on Senior Evaluation DayComponents of the Senior Patroller Evaluation:

Regional Advisors typically rotate evaluation locations around their region. RA’sarrange a multitude of logistical details such as planning, lift tickets, and staffing. It isadvisable to send your Senior OET application to the Regional OET Advisor (RA)early in the season to ensure a spot at the evaluation.

The Senior OET Program is broken down into three separate stations for evaluationpurposes:

1. Skiing/Riding skills2. Patroller skills3. Toboggan skills

For the Skiing/Riding Station, candidates are trained and evaluated on their ability toperform carved short, medium, and long radius turns on varying terrain.

For the Patroller Skills Station, candidates are trained and evaluated on theirsnowplow, sideslip, and transition skills, as well as equipment carry and ski-ability(often known as crud skiing).

For the Toboggan Handling Station, candidates are trained and evaluated on theirskills at loaded toboggan front, loaded toboggan rea r, and an empty toboggan run.

Training clinics and evaluations are held on “Senior-Rated Terrain” known as “more tomost difficult” terrain.

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Senior OET Evaluation Format:

There are two formats which the Regional OET Trainer-Evaluators use to evaluateSenior Candidates:

1. Senior Patroller Clinic/Evaluation is a two-day event in which SeniorPatroller candidates participate in clinics and evaluations. The advantage ofthis format is that it gives candidates an opportunity for practice andimprovement over a two-day span. It gives the Trainer-Evaluators a longertime for evaluating candidates. This format also reduces the possibility of thecandidate being unsuccessful in a station due to “one bad run,” a demomisunderstanding, nervousness, etc.

2. Senior Patroller Challenge Evaluation is a one-day event in which SeniorPatroller candidates are shown demonstrations of the required skills byRegional Trainer-Evaluators then asked to perform the skills for evaluation.This format takes on more of a testing atmosphere, with little time for practicedue to time constraints. The challenge format is not for everyone, but if you arecompetent and confident of your Senior level skills, it can be a rewarding wayto achieve the Senior OET level.

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Trainer-Evaluator Testing CriteriaDifferences between Senior and TE criteria include mastery of a higher standard andexpectation of increased consistency, the ability to demo the skills, and proficiency inteaching Senior Candidates. The TE Evaluation is often focused on the ability toteach, performing the skills as seen in the quality of the Trainee’s demos, andmastery of the standard.

The standards for skiing, patroller skills, and toboggan handling tasks are similar tothose used in Senior evaluations, however, they include specific language denoting ahigher performance level. Performance level differences should be evident in thebulleted descriptions and accompanying videos. To highlight the difference, the word“Performance” has been added to some of the elements.

Therefore the passing score for each element remains at “Satisfactory - Essentialelements appear frequently at a satisfactory level” or higher. Scorecard-wise, thepassing grade "SATISFACTORY LEVEL" is identical to what is considered passingfor Senior Candidates. But “level of mastery” and performance on the higherstandard describes successful TE Trainees. The difference between these two"levels of mastery" appears in the accompanying videos. For a detailed descriptionof how scoring is determined at OET evaluation, review the OET Scoringexpectations page.

Performance ShortRadius Turn

Location:Most DifficultGroomed

Size:Approx. 15’“One Groomer Track”

● Ski performance is as carved as possible given terrain,conditions, and ski design. Pressure is directed along thelength of the skis and toward the outside ski.

● The line taken by the skis sends the center of mass acrossthe hill and a consistent tempo is maintained through the run.

● These are not fall line-oriented, short swing turns.● The skis are tipped and engaged early in the turn.● The skis are parallel with similar edge angles.● Both ski edges are engaged and bent during the shaping

phase of the turn.● Speed is controlled through turn shape.● Fore/aft pressure control is managed through proportional

flexion and extension of all joints.● The torso remains stable and disciplined.● Skier demonstrates the ability to turn, pivot, and steer

feet/legs separate from the upper body.

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Performance MediumRadius Turn

Location:More/MostDifficult/Groomed15’+ “Two GroomerTracks” wide

● See short turn criteria.● TE-Trainee’s center of mass remains over the base of support

while directing pressure along the length of the skis andtoward the outside ski.

● Skier is in control and balanced throughout.● Appropriate adjustments to inclination and angulation are

made to accommodate turn size.

Performance LongRadius Turn

Location:More Difficult/Groomed30’+ “Three GroomerTracks” wide

● TE-Trainee’s center of mass remains over the base of supportwhile directing pressure along the length of the skis andtoward the outside ski.

● Appropriate adjustments to inclination and angulation aremade to accommodate turn size.

● Turn shapes are arcs, not linked traverses.● Skis leave mostly clean “railroad tracks.”

Ski Ability

Location:Most DifficultMogul/Crud

● Linked turns demonstrating the ability to adapt to changingsnow and terrain.

● Speed is controlled and maintained.● Shape of the turn is made with skis turning more than the

upper body.● Ski/Snow contact in all terrain is maintained through

progressive flexion and extension of ankles, knees, and hips.● Upper body remains stable with little lower-body movements.● Regulates the magnitude of pressure created through

ski/snow interaction. Demonstrates “touch” in changingconditions and terrain.

Pivot SlipAssessment Activity

Location:Most Difficult Groomedand Moguled Slope

● TE sideslips while maintaining a narrow corridor.● Both legs pivot 180-degree under a stable pelvis and upper

body.● Pivot point is under the center of the skis.● Ski/Snow contact is maintained through progressive flexion and

extension of ankles, knees, and hips.● Speed is controlled and maintained.

Greater detail into Pivot Slipping can be found by watching this Pivot Slip Video.

Translate it all to Telemark Skiing

Translate it all to Snowboarding (coming soon)

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TE Assessment Criteria for Performance and DemosDivision Staff examiners may ask TE Trainees to perform some or all of the listedtasks. Trainees must provide high-quality demonstrations with an understanding ofthe Five Fundamentals and be able to discuss how each affects performance. TETrainee demos will be held on “most difficult,” moguled, and groomed terrain.

PerformanceTasks

● TE Trainees will be prepared to demonstrate the demos in a varietyof terrain and conditions.

● Demos should be well-practiced and accurate to convey the criticalelements to senior candidates at exams or during training.

● TE-Trainees can accurately demo the skills required to successfullymanage a toboggan meeting all senior toboggan criteria.

● Has the ability to separate skill elements and present them in thecontext of coaching others.

● Capable of relating the skills using the “Five Fundamentals.”● How does the Hockey Stop skill provide a good indicator of the Five

Fundamentals? How does it apply to ski/ride and toboggan skills?

Snowplow

Hockey Stop

Sideslip

Transition

Empty Sled

Loaded Sled

Tail Rope

Knowledge/Coaching Assessment Criteria

Immediate Feedback

Effectively assessesstudent(s) skill levels andplans appropriateprogressions (ADAPT)

● Identifying Cause and Effect.● This pertains to a candidate’s understanding of what body movements

cause effective and ineffective skiing/riding.● Conclusions should be based on a working understanding of the Five

Fundamentals.

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Knowledge Base

Demonstrates anunderstanding andapplication of the FIVEFundamentals withrelation to Patroller Skillsand Toboggan Handling

● Accurately describes OET tasks such as:○ Sideslip○ Snowplow○ Transition○ Hockey Stop Assessment○ Empty Sled Run○ Loaded Toboggan○ Tail Rope○ Pivot Slip

● TE-Trainee can accurately apply the Five Fundamentals when describingskiing and toboggan skills tasks.

CommunicationThis pertains to how the mechanics of Skiing/Riding and toboggan related skills areconveyed. Is the message easily understood and accurate? Will the terminologyused be accurate, well communicated, and understood by prospective students?Are the word choices used as a help or hindrance to learning? Utilizes PISE formatto provide feedback within the OET program’s overall teaching methodology.

Evaluation Scoring

Understands OETscoring anddemonstrates the abilityto document thefeedback necessary tosupport all scores.

TE-Trainee accurately provides scores and feedback to the level necessaryto score at a senior exam. Displays adequate understanding of theexpectations at each level and how to provide constructive feedback tocandidates.

Evaluation Setup

Demonstratesknowledge andapplication of OETperformance standardswith regard to skills,terrain choice,toboggans, and safetyprocedures.

TE-Trainee selects appropriate terrain for evaluation and demos and isfluent in toboggan safety and risk management for events.

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Trainer-Evaluator Senior Evaluation Scoring ProcessTE-Trainees will be expected to perform at a SATISFACTORY level or higher oneach skill element.

● Essential Elements were not observed or not present.● Essential elements are beginning to appear.● Essential elements appear, but not with consistency.● Essential elements appear frequently, at a satisfactory level.● Essential elements appear consistently above the required level.● Essential elements appear continuously, at a superior level.

TE-Trainees must perform a higher Level of Standard than Seniors. Reviewing theOET elements described in the TE section illustrate the higher level of performancerequired to pass. The critical question being asked while observing TE Trainees is:

How effectively does the TE-Trainee display the skills being tested against thestandard for each activity?

Steering Committee members mark scorecards using the same grading criteriadescribed above to pass Trainees who are observed performing the essentialelements at a SATISFACTORY level or higher. The grading scale is a guidelinemeant to show that Trainees are achieving the TE Level of Standard. This traditionalTE level has been known as Seven. It defines the level of performance mastery andskill understanding, which is different from Senior patrollers, traditionally known aslevel Six.

The videos embedded throughout the OET web pages, as well as the personalizedtraining that the Trainees receive from their respective Regional OET mentors, aredesigned to provide an understanding of the difference between Senior Patrollers andthe performance level required for becoming a Trainer-Evaluator.

Think of the TE Evaluation scoring as an intuitive guide for recognizing whetherperformance indicators appear at the TE Level of Standard:

● Not present (not TE level)● Beginning to appear (not TE level)● Not yet consistent (not TE level)● Satisfactory TE Level● Consistent TE Level● Fully mastered TE Level (possibly Certified level)

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The scorecard is set up with the elements showing bulleted performance indicators.Scores are recorded for each assessment element. Determining a successful PASSfor a TE-Trainee requires performing all the elements, attaining scores of“satisfactory” or higher for each performance indicator.

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Prerequisite for becoming a Trainer-EvaluatorPatrollers who want to become Trainer-Evaluators must begin by contacting theirRegional OET Advisor. TEs are regional staff members directed by the OET RA.Individual regions decide how many TE Trainee openings are required to fill theRegion’s needs. It takes a minimum of a season and a half before TE Trainees areready for evaluation in front of the division’s OET Steering Committee. Most traineestake more than two years to master the level of performance, teaching skills, and theability to evaluate Senior Candidates. The Regional Staff that takes on a Trainee isresponsible for preparing them for successfully passing the TE evaluation.

The following list shows the prerequisites required in the typical order achieved by TETrainees:

1. Alpine Senior Patroller.2. OET Toboggan Instructor (at your local patrol, however, some RAs provide this

step at the Regional Staff training level).3. Selected as a TE prospect by your Regional OET Advisor or OET ITs.4. Mentored by the Regional Staff Instructor Trainers under the direction of the

RA (they become officially known as a TE Trainees).5. Attend the Eastern Division OET Online Moodle School courses that introduce

the Five Fundamentals and OET Trainer-Evaluator Teaching Methods.6. When ready, the OET RA will send the TE Trainee to Patroller School as an

observer (optional, but recommended for learning evaluation expectations).7. Continued mentoring by the Regional Staff Instructor Trainers.8. When ready, the OET RA will send the TE Trainee to Patroller School for final

evaluation.9. Those trainees who pass at Patroller School are certified as Senior Program

Trainer-Evaluators for three years.

Each Region manages this process differently. Some RAs require a formalapplication and issue TE Trainees mentoring forms for logging their training andteaching opportunities. Other regions mentor their trainees informally.

Becoming an OET Trainer-Evaluator is not a level for achievement, it is reserved forthose who show dedication for teaching at the Regional level on a Regional SeniorTraining Staff. Re-Certification at a Patroller School event is required every threeyears to maintain a Trainer-Evaluator certification, furthermore, all the NSPrequirements for maintaining an OET Toboggan Instructor appointment must be doneconcurrently.

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OET Trainer-Evaluator Teaching MethodsOver the last twenty-five years, Eastern Division OET has developed a five-point"Teaching Methods Philosophy" used by TEs when coaching Senior Candidates. Allfive methods in the philosophy can be found in the Instructor Development textbookcalled "Training the Adult Learner." It is important to download a copy and re-readthe chapters cited below, These are the core of OET Instructional understanding.

OET Teaching Philosophy

1. Lesson Progressions that chain together "Snippets" to facilitate incrementalsuccess as a pathway for mastering skills (ID textbook Appendix D EffectiveTeaching Techniques -- Focusing on One Element).

2. Snippet Sized Lessons with manageable objectives designed to simplifyguided practice, leading to quicker student success (ID textbook Chapter 2Adult Learning Characteristics).

3. Six-Pack Lesson Planning with an emphasis on Concluding Objectives andSummarization (ID textbook Chapter 5 Lesson Planning).

4. Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation to re-teach skills, customizing fasterstudent success (ID textbook Chapter 8 Monitoring and Evaluation).

5. Individualized Positive Immediate Student Feedback used throughout alllearning activities (ID textbook Chapter 3 Human Relations andCommunication).

Structuring on-snow courses that include all five methods is important. Once TETrainees make it to a Patroller School evaluation, their teaching and grading will beassessed against their skillful use of all the OET Teaching Methods.

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ADAPT is the MONITORING AND EVALUATION model that must be intertwinedthroughout the bulk of a typical lesson. During Content Delivery, the Instructor shouldbe checking for understanding. While coaching students during Learning Activities,Instructors should be evaluating students for progress. ADAPTing and Re-ADAPTingare central to good coaching.

Assess – observe and identify student strengths and needs for improvement.

Develop - craft a lesson for ‘ONE’ development area that will do the “MOSTGOOD!”

Assign Tasks - Think of an activity or drill that can help and builds off anyprior drills/activities (progression) and includes components of kinesthetic,visual & verbal learning.

Practice - Give the patroller ample time to practice (ie: multiple runs, varyingterrain, ample coaching),

Test - with immediate positive feedback.

Re-ADAPT reminds TEs to repeat the ADAPT process until the students learn theskills before moving onto new topics.

Individualized Positive Immediate Student Feedback needs to be theprimary method of guiding students. It’s important to focus on ONE skill at a timewhen selecting feedback. OET refers to this as PISE feedback to remind TEs how toconvey it.

PISE feedback:● Positive - always begin with skills the student shows successfully● Improvement - choose one element that can be improved.● Specific - provide a specific way of achieving improvement.● Evaluation - give students a score!

Good Teaching Habits are important for creating a learning environment. Forexample, gather the group in safe locations, remove your goggles, stand below thegroup, speak clearly so you can be heard, etc.

Avoid using: “I want to see you do…” or “I didn’t like it when you…”

Focus on: “Did you notice how you did…” or “How did it feel when…”

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ADAPT your lessons with drills and activities to address the most critical area thatmight make the biggest improvements.

Demo Accuracy - TE candidates will be asked to provide demos of varioussenior-level skills and drills. They will be expected to successfully evaluate thequality of these demos. Simulations may be employed to provide evaluationdiscussions for dissecting the fundamentals. Candidates are expected to show anunderstanding of how to highlight individual fundamentals during lessons as ateaching technique.

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Terrain Selection Considerations for EasternDivision OET Senior Events

Most regions have terrain that has consistently been used and accepted by theEastern Division for OET events, the discussion that follows is for consideration whennew terrain, for whatever reason, is being considered.

The Eastern Division Senior Scoring Booklet indicates what terrain each skill is to beperformed on: More Difficult or Most Difficult, either Smooth or Moguled whenavailable.

Unfortunately, as our sister organization the PSIA describes it quite well: “As each skiresort determines its own terrain difficulty, there is no standard for every trail rating.The levels of all alpine trails are relative to each other. For example, a beginner leveltrail (green circle) at a steep ski mountain may be markedly more difficult than anintermediate level trail (blue square) at another resort.”

The Eastern Division OET Steering Committee is striving to be sure that seniorevaluations are as consistent as possible across the entire division. The goal being ifan individual were to pass a Senior OET evaluation at one mountain, that individualwould stand an equal chance of success at every S&T evaluation in all 14 regions ofthe Eastern Division.

What National has given us in The Ski Patroller’s manual, page 129, National SkiPatrol Senior Program Terrain Requirements is: “ To host senior alpine andevaluation activities, an area should have a slope that averages 40% grade (22degrees) for at least 800 feet. Senior training and evaluation clinics may be on ashorter slope if it is steeper and if the hill is configured in such a way that manyrepetitions are reasonably possible. Terrain should be smooth and moguled. (Mogulsmay be unexpectedly unavailable because of last minute grooming, snowfall, etc., butevery effort must be made to select ski areas that meet terrain requirements undernormal operating conditions.)

However, our score books use the terms More Difficult and Most Difficult, and there isno correlation or connection to what the slope is for More or Most Difficult.

While there is no established standard for trail ratings the internet does provide someguidance, so as a working definition of trail ratings to be used in the Eastern Divisionfor OET programs:

· Easiest: Up to 25% grade or 14 degrees.

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· More Difficult: 25% to 40% grade or 14-22 degrees

· Most Difficult: Steeper than 40% grade, over 22 degrees

· Take into consideration the width of the trail, sharpest turns, terrain roughness,double fall lines, and whether the trail is groomed regularly

The best method is for the RA and Division Staff to agree on what trails areacceptable terrain in that Region for an OET event, ahead of time. The real goal is tohave the terrain be challenging enough to allow the candidate to demonstrate theadvanced skills we expect of a senior patroller.

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NSP Eastern Division Online Moodle SchoolEastern Division OET Program maintains courses for Trainer-Evaluator Traineeswhich guide them in the understanding of the Five Fundamentals and OET TeachingMethods. Every TE Trainee is required to take the online courses at their own pace.Contact your Regional OET Advisor to get access to Moodle School.

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What to Expect on TE Evaluation WeekendTrainer-Evaluator evaluations and Re-Certifications are held exclusively at OETPatroller Schools. TE Trainees are evaluated over a two day period in a relaxedclinic/evaluation format.

Day 1● TE Trainees will facilitate and teach** a full day toboggan/patroller skills clinic.● They will appropriately assess the ability level of the group.● Address safety and clinic expectations.● Develop and implement an appropriate lesson progression based upon the

skill/experience of the group.● Provide attendees with appropriate tasks and feedback to promote

improvement.● Provide patroller skills and toboggan handling demos for participants at an

average of 4 runs during the clinic.(Link to TE report card doc on Division OET Webpage)

**TE Trainees will be observed teaching by a Division OET Steering or Staff member.To ensure the ability to accurately score senior events candidates will be asked to“score” and provide feedback to clinic members with respect to the Senior OETelements.

Day 2Clinic with Division Steering/Staff Members/PSIA Educational Staff Member

● TE Trainees will demonstrate personal proficiency as described in the scoringcriteria found earlier in this manual.

● The clinic will include skiing, patroller skills, and toboggan updates with anemphasis on useful drills and incorporating contemporary ski/tobogganinstruction terminology within the OET Teaching Philosophy.

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General OET Toboggan Instructor RefresherGuidelines

Introduction

The Eastern Division OET Program maintains a local Toboggan Instructorrecertification course known as a Toboggan Trainers Workshop (TTW). Every OETToboggan Instructor is required to recertify every three years to maintain their NSPInstructor appointment, along with other requirements managed by the Regional OETAdvisor. Eastern Division OET maintains a TTW course curriculum document on thedivision’s website titled: Course Content for TTW. Download a copy to discover thedetails.

Expectations for the day● Have fun!● Review teaching skills and have an opportunity to demonstrate patroller and

toboggan skills.● Discuss teaching techniques and help build new lesson concepts for your

toolkit.

Role of a Toboggan Instructor:● Be a “Trainer” first… make the learning process enjoyable for the student!● Coordinate the local patrol’s annual “Toboggan Check-Off” process (eg, what

is required, tips/tricks for managing it, course completion/release)● If unsure at any point, ask for help… Regional Advisor, TE, etc.● Overview of toboggan components (eg, skegs, chain brake, tail rope, handles,

locks)

Patroller Skills● Snowplow: Does the patroller maintain effective movement by slipping the

edge(s) without railing during terrain changes?● Sideslip: Does the patroller maintain effective movement by slipping the

edge(s) in either direction without traversing?● Transition Maneuver:

Does the patroller maintain consistent speed with a braking edge on the snowwhile changing direction and not deviating from the “fall line” corridor?Snowboarder: Does the patroller maintain a consistent speed during directionchange going from one braking edge to the other while spinning the board inthe “fall line” corridor?

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Toboggan Handling Skills● Unloaded: Does the patroller safely and efficiently control the toboggan in the

fall line to the accident site?● Loaded – Front/Driving: Does the patroller safely and efficiently control the

toboggan in the fall line by using appropriate skill maneuvers while monitoringthe patient?

● Unloaded – Back/Tail-rope: Does the patroller safely and efficiently managethe tail rope, while maintaining an optimal position for braking or an emergencystop by using appropriate skill maneuvers?

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Helpful Information and LinksNSP Eastern Division OET Website

NSP Eastern Division Snow Pro Tips Videos

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