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Performance
horse training
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Performance horse
training is now being offered as a distance learning
course by Allegany College of Maryland.
Students can learn horse training techniques, train their own horse with
professional step by step guidance, and earn a certificate of recognition
all at the same time, and at home, said Robert Penner, director of
professional development.
"The nine-lesson course takes the student from before the first saddle
through each progressive step until the horse is learning advance
equestrian exercises," Penner said. "The focus of the course
is on
'how-to' steps of teaching the horse forward, backward and lateral
exercises, proper cadence and stride, impulsion, suppleness and
collection."
Because students get their lessons on their computer, it is not necessary
for a student to reside within the Allegany College district. Students
from around the world can participate in the Allegany program, Penner
points out.
Registration can be made by calling Allegany Continuing Education at (301)
784-5341 or online at www.ac.cc.md.us/acce.htm. Students can begin the
course anytime they choose after Jan. 21, 2002. There is no time limit
for
completion of the course.
Internationally known trainer/author Don Blazer developed the course and
wrote the text. With more than 30 years of experience in the writing of
educational materials, Blazer says the keys to this distance learning
course are the weekly online chat room and the narrative tests. "It
is the
interaction between student and instructor which produce postive horse
training results," Blazer said.
Penner explained that after each lesson the students are tested on theory
and are required to write a narrative report on the horse's progress and
competency. The tests are sent to Blazer who grades them and returns
written comments and suggestions to assist the students as they perfect
their skills. The student also meet with Blazer weekly in an online
chatroom where they can discuss specific problems, evaluate their progress
and share ideas with other students.
"This course isn't about English or western; it's designed to teach
the
trainer and horse all the basic movements required to advanced to the
highest levels of performance," Penner said. "When the course
is
successfully completed, the student will receive a certificate of
recognition from Allegany College. The certificate tells the equestrian
world this student's accomplishments and talents have been tested and
recognized."
Blazer, who has traveled from Alaska to Australia helping horsemen
increase their training skills, has authored five how-to health care and
horse training books. He has taught training and riding techniques for
six
colleges and universities, and is the author of a nationally syndicated
column, A Horse, Of Course, which is considered must reading for thousands
of fans.
A sample of one of the lessons and some of the test questions are
available online at www.donblazer.com.
For more information about the
course, contact Penner at (301) 784-5121
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