USPS Elective Courses
Elective courses are available to
members.
They may be taken without prerequisite, although it is suggested that
the Seamanship course be taken before taking any of the electives.
SAIL
This course provides a thorough study of
the terminology and dynamics of sailing. It includes--
·
Types of hulls
and rigs
·
Types of running
and standing rigging and their adjustment
·
·
Forces vs.
balance
·
The theory of
sailing
·
Points of sailing
·
Sail handling
·
Sailing under
various wind conditions
·
Navigation rules
unique to sailing vessels
MARINE ELECTRONICS
This course teaches essential knowledge
about a boat's electrical and electronic systems, including--
·
Proper wiring
·
Grounding
·
Corrosion and
electrolysis control
·
Batteries and
their maintenance
·
Depth finders
·
Marine
radiotelephones
·
Radar
·
Loran, GPS, other
electronic positioning systems
ENGINE MAINTENANCE
This course attempts to make students
more self-reliant afloat, with trouble-diagnosis and temporary remedies given
special emphasis. It covers both marine gasoline and diesel engines, including
concepts of operation, maintenance and repair of their--
·
Cooling systems
·
Electrical
systems
·
Fuel systems
·
Lubricating
systems
·
Power train
components
·
Ancillary
propulsion components
WEATHER
The Weather course is designed to teach
a student how to make weather observations and predictions for more enjoyable
boating. Topics Include--
·
Awareness of
weather phenomena
·
How to read a
weather map and the sky
·
How to understand
and anticipate weather developments
·
Structure and
characteristics of the atmosphere
·
Factors
considered in weather forecasting
·
Sources and use
of weather reports and forecasts
·
Instrument and
visual observations the skipper can make
CRUISE PLANNING
This course is designed for members who plan to cruise
for a year or just a weekend - in either a sail or powerboat. It covers such
topics as --
·
Planning a voyage
·
Financing a
voyage
·
Managing
commitments back home
·
How to equip a
cruising boat
·
Crew selection
·
Provisioning
·
Voyage management
·
Entering and
clearing foreign ports
·
Emergencies
afloat
·
Security measures
INSTRUCTOR QUALIFICATION
Unlike other USPS courses, this one is not designed to
enhance boating skills. Rather, it deals with effective communications for the
speaker and teacher, a quality that benefits the individual in all walks of
life. It offers practical instruction in--
·
Preparing for
teaching assignments
·
Preparing for
meeting presentations
·
Effective
teaching techniques
·
Conducting
efficient meetings
·
Selection and use
of audio-visual aids