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Lindsey crosbie

• Teachers, Special Education Teachers

• Equine Specialists

• Experiential Educators

• Equestrian Instructors (riding, driving, vaulting, etc.)

• Recreational Therapists

• Life Coaches

• Ministers

• Corporate Leadership Trainers

• Mental Health Therapists (for activities outside of a client’s treatment plan work)

• Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapists

Read more

• Teachers, Special Education Teachers

• Equine Specialists

• Experiential Educators

• Equestrian Instructors (riding, driving, vaulting, etc.)

• Recreational Therapists

• Life Coaches

• Ministers

• Corporate Leadership Trainers

• Mental Health Therapists (for activities outside of a client’s treatment plan work)

• Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapists

Are you an equine assisted pactitioner (or practitioner in training) who needs some help with planning sessions? Maybe you feel your activities are getting a bit repetitive and would like to find ways to make them more fun, or you have lots of great ideas for equine assisted sessions but struggle to get them down on paper? This course will help you create a structured a session plan with clear goals and SMART success criteria that can be used to deliver a fun and fruitful equine assisted session.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn why session planning is important in equine assisted services
  • Understand what makes a great equine assisted learning session
  • Learn differentiation strategies for a variety of clients
  • Learn all about task analysis

Syllabus

Introduction
How to Plan an Equine Assisted Learning Session
Why we plan
How we plan
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Career center

Learners who complete Equine Assisted Session Planning Masterclass will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Equine Specialist
This course is a Masterclass in Equine Assisted Session Planning, making it profoundly relevant for an Equine Specialist. This professional partners with mental health practitioners, educators, or coaches to facilitate therapeutic and educational activities involving horses. The course directly addresses the core competencies needed to create structured, goal-oriented sessions, ensuring both safety and effectiveness in equine interactions for personal growth and learning. It provides practical frameworks for establishing clear goals and SMART success criteria, and teaches methods for framing and processing participant interactions, which are essential for maximizing the impact of every equine assisted session. Taking this course helps an Equine Specialist refine their planning methodologies and enhance their ability to deliver impactful, well-designed experiences.
Special Education Teacher
A Special Education Teacher works with students who have diverse learning needs, developing individualized education plans to support their academic and personal growth. This course provides invaluable insights into designing highly structured learning sessions. The focus on differentiation strategies for a variety of clients and understanding task analysis are directly applicable to creating inclusive and effective educational interventions. Learning to craft sessions with clear goals and SMART success criteria, as detailed in this course, directly enhances a teacher's ability to develop and deliver targeted instruction that addresses specific student challenges and promotes self-growth through engaging activities. This role often requires a master's degree or specific certification.
Recreational Therapist
A Recreational Therapist plans, directs, and coordinates recreation-based programs to improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being for individuals with diverse needs. For this role, incorporating equine activities can be highly beneficial, and this course's focus on structured session planning becomes invaluable. It provides the tools to establish clear goals and SMART success criteria for therapeutic equine interactions, ensuring activities are purposeful and adaptable through differentiation strategies for diverse client needs. This course can significantly enhance a Recreational Therapist's ability to design effective, engaging, and outcome-oriented programs. This role often requires a master's degree.
Experiential Educator
The Experiential Educator role is deeply aligned with the principles of equine assisted learning, which itself is a form of learning by doing and reflecting. This professional designs and facilitates immersive learning experiences where participants learn through direct engagement. This course helps an Experiential Educator design sessions using the Experiential Learning Cycle, a core theoretical framework in this field. It provides practical methods for structuring activities with clear goals and success criteria, and understanding differentiation strategies, directly enhancing an educator's ability to create impactful and adaptive experiences for personal growth and skill development.
Occupational Therapist
An Occupational Therapist helps individuals participate in daily activities they want and need to do, often using therapeutic activities to improve skills. If an Occupational Therapist integrates equine-assisted activities into their practice, this course provides essential frameworks for program design. It offers a structured approach to session planning, incorporating clear goals and SMART success criteria, and applying differentiation strategies to tailor equine interactions to specific client needs. This can directly enhance motor skills, cognitive function, and social engagement. This course refines an Occupational Therapist's ability to create purposeful and effective interventions. This role typically requires an advanced degree.
Life Coach
A Life Coach guides clients in setting and achieving personal and professional goals through structured conversations and exercises. This course directly supports a Life Coach in structuring their programs, especially if they choose to incorporate experiential modalities like equine interactions. It provides a robust framework for comprehensive session planning, goal setting (including SMART criteria), and understanding client differentiation, all crucial for guiding individuals toward personal growth and professional development effectively. By mastering these planning techniques, a Life Coach can deliver more impactful, customized, and results-oriented coaching experiences.
Physical Therapist
For a Physical Therapist exploring or utilizing equine-assisted interventions, such as hippotherapy, this course provides essential frameworks for session planning. This professional helps individuals improve movement and manage pain. The masterclass helps structure activities with clear physical and functional goals, applying task analysis and differentiation strategies to adapt movements and interactions with equines, thereby enhancing rehabilitation outcomes. This course empowers a Physical Therapist to design targeted, safe, and effective equine-assisted programs that contribute to improved mobility and well-being. This role typically requires an advanced degree.
Youth Development Professional
A Youth Development Professional works to guide the personal, social, and educational growth of young people in various settings. Since equine assisted learning focuses on fostering life skills, self-care, and social skills, it aligns perfectly with the goals of youth development. This course provides a structured approach to designing engaging sessions with clear outcomes. By learning about differentiation and various learning theories, a Youth Development Professional can effectively support young individuals through interactive and experiential activities, enhancing their ability to build character and essential life competencies.
Corporate Leadership Trainer
A Corporate Leadership Trainer designs and delivers programs to develop leadership skills, teamwork, and professional capabilities within organizations. Understanding how to plan and facilitate experiential learning is key to this role. This course, while focused on equine-assisted learning, provides fundamental principles for designing engaging sessions with clear objectives, using differentiation and task analysis to cater to diverse professional development needs, and building crucial leadership qualities and teamwork skills. The structured approach to goal setting and activity planning is directly transferable to corporate training environments.
Speech-Language Pathologist
A Speech Language Pathologist evaluates and treats communication and swallowing disorders. For those interested in incorporating innovative, experiential approaches, this course provides helpful insights for designing targeted sessions. The emphasis on structured planning, goal setting, differentiation strategies, and processing interactions can assist in developing creative, engaging activities with horses to support communication development, social skills, and nonverbal communication. This course helps a Speech Language Pathologist expand their therapeutic toolkit for individuals with diverse communication needs. This role typically requires an advanced degree.
Equestrian Instructor
While a traditional Equestrian Instructor teaches individuals how to ride, drive, or vault with horses, these activities can be incorporated into broader equine assisted learning sessions. This course helps an Equestrian Instructor expand their practice by providing the framework for planning sessions with personal growth goals beyond mere riding mechanics. It covers differentiation and task analysis to enhance the learning experience, transforming skill-based instruction into opportunities for broader personal development. This course empowers an Equestrian Instructor to offer more holistic and impactful equine-based programs.
Outdoor Education Instructor
An Outdoor Education Instructor leads groups in outdoor activities, using natural environments to teach skills, build character, and foster teamwork, often employing experiential learning. This course's focus on session planning, the Experiential Learning Cycle, and structured goal setting is highly relevant to this profession. While not exclusively equine-specific, the principles of designing engaging, goal-oriented activities, differentiation, and processing experiences are directly transferable to any outdoor educational setting. This course may be helpful for an Outdoor Education Instructor seeking to refine their program design and facilitation skills for deeper impact.
Mental Health Therapist
A Mental Health Therapist provides counseling and therapy to individuals. While direct treatment is separate, the course description highlights that equine assisted learning can be used for activities outside a client’s treatment plan work. For a therapist interested in expanding their approach, this course may be helpful in designing structured, engagement sessions. It provides a framework for creating goal-oriented, equine-assisted activities focused on personal growth or skill-building. Learning about differentiation strategies and processing interactions for self-growth can assist in developing complementary therapeutic approaches, offering a unique avenue for supporting clients' well-being and development beyond traditional therapy. This role typically requires an advanced degree.
Program Coordinator
A Program Coordinator oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of specific programs or projects within an organization. This course, with its strong emphasis on structured session planning, clear goal setting, SMART success criteria, and understanding the 'why' and 'how' of program design, can significantly enhance their ability to create and execute effective, well-structured initiatives. The principles of differentiation and task analysis taught in this masterclass are universally applicable to managing diverse program participants and ensuring successful outcomes, making this course potentially helpful for a Program Coordinator seeking to elevate their program management skills.
Curriculum Developer
A Curriculum Developer designs, develops, and implements educational programs and materials across various settings. This course could be helpful for a Curriculum Developer due to its emphasis on designing structured learning experiences with clear goals and SMART success criteria. The course details 'how to plan' sessions, incorporate activities, and apply learning theories like the Experiential Learning Cycle, differentiation, and task analysis, all fundamental to creating effective and engaging curricula, whether equine-assisted or otherwise. This provides a robust methodology for developing educational content. A master's degree in education or instructional design is often preferred for this role.

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Equine Assisted Session Planning Masterclass.
This highly influential book introduces the backward design framework, a widely adopted approach that emphasizes starting curriculum design with the desired learning outcomes and evidence of learning. It is considered a must-read for educators and curriculum designers across all levels, offering practical strategies and templates for creating units and courses focused on promoting deep understanding and the transfer of knowledge. is commonly used as a textbook and a key professional reference.
A timeless classic on interpersonal skills, this book offers practical advice for building relationships, communicating effectively, and influencing others positively. These skills are fundamental to professional networking, collaboration, and leadership. It remains a highly relevant resource for anyone looking to improve their social skills in a professional context.
Is essential for gaining a broad understanding of how learning actually works, drawing on cognitive psychology. It debunks popular myths about learning, including the overemphasis on learning styles, and provides evidence-based strategies for more effective learning. It is highly relevant for all audiences, from high school to working professionals, and serves as a valuable reference for improving personal learning and teaching practices.
A foundational text on understanding and developing emotional intelligence. Goleman argues that EQ crucial factor in success and well-being. provides a comprehensive overview of emotional intelligence and its impact on various aspects of life.
This foundational text, a true classic in the field, presents a concise yet powerful framework for curriculum development. Tyler's rationale, focusing on objectives, learning experiences, organization, and evaluation, provides a clear, cyclical process that is essential for anyone seeking a broad understanding of how to design educational programs. While originally published decades ago, its core principles remain highly relevant and are a cornerstone of curriculum theory and practice.
Effective communication, especially during difficult or high-stakes situations, is vital for professional success. provides a step-by-step guide to handling crucial conversations constructively and achieving positive outcomes. It's a practical reference for improving interpersonal communication skills.
Directly addresses the topic of SMART goals, providing a step-by-step guide to setting and achieving objectives using this specific framework. It practical "how-to" book that helps readers understand the components of SMART goals and apply them to their personal and professional lives. This is an excellent resource for gaining a focused understanding of the SMART methodology.
Angela Duckworth's research on grit highlights the importance of passion and perseverance over talent for achieving long-term goals. offers valuable insights for developing resilience and a tenacious approach to personal and professional challenges.
This essential resource provides evidence-based principles for designing effective multimedia and online learning experiences. Drawing on research in cognitive science, it offers practical guidelines for incorporating text, graphics, and audio in ways that optimize learning. Given the increasing prevalence of online education, this book is crucial for contemporary curriculum designers working in digital environments.
Translates research from cognitive science into practical, easy-to-implement teaching strategies. It focuses on evidence-based techniques like retrieval practice, spacing, and interleaving, which are effective for all learners regardless of purported learning styles. It's an excellent resource for educators and anyone interested in applying the science of learning in real-world settings.
Another impactful book by Brené Brown, focusing on the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity. It introduces ten guideposts for wholehearted living, helping readers move away from comparison and perfectionism towards embracing their true selves.
This comprehensive text offers a thorough overview of theories, research, and best practices in adult learning. It is an essential resource for curriculum designers working with adult learners in any setting, including higher education and professional development. It provides deep insights into adult development, motivation, and the contexts of adult learning, crucial for creating effective and relevant adult-focused curriculum.
Offers a practical guide to giving and receiving feedback effectively, a crucial skill for managers and individuals alike. It emphasizes the importance of caring personally while challenging directly to foster growth and improve performance. This valuable resource for enhancing communication and feedback processes in the workplace.
A cornerstone in understanding the power of beliefs in personal growth. Dweck's research on fixed vs. growth mindsets provides a crucial perspective on learning, resilience, and achieving potential. is valuable for students and professionals alike seeking to cultivate a mindset conducive to continuous development.
This classic text is fundamental for understanding the unique characteristics and needs of adult learners. It introduces the concept of andragogy and provides principles for designing learning experiences tailored to adults. For anyone designing curriculum for undergraduate, graduate, or professional development programs, this book offers essential background knowledge to inform pedagogical choices and enhance learner engagement.
Provides a comprehensive overview of major learning theories, including behaviorism, social cognitive theory, information processing, and constructivism. It's a foundational text often used in educational psychology programs, offering essential background knowledge for understanding the theoretical underpinnings of how people learn. It is particularly useful for undergraduate and graduate students in education and psychology.
This comprehensive anthology brings together seminal essays that define the field of curriculum studies. It offers a deep dive into the historical, theoretical, and philosophical underpinnings of curriculum, featuring both classic and contemporary perspectives. is particularly valuable for graduate students and researchers looking to gain a rich, nuanced understanding of the diverse intellectual traditions that inform curriculum design and its role in education and society.
This practical guide offers a clear, standards-based approach to designing high-quality online courses. It covers essential principles of pedagogical, organizational, and visual design specifically for the online learning environment. valuable reference and how-to guide for educators and instructional designers tasked with creating or revising curriculum for effective online delivery.
Building on his 'Start with Why' concept, Sinek explores the importance of creating a 'Circle of Safety' within organizations, where trust and cooperation are paramount. is highly relevant for leaders seeking to build strong, cohesive, and high-performing teams.
Offers a comprehensive, step-by-step guide specifically focused on goal setting and achievement. It provides practical strategies for defining, planning, and achieving your most important goals. While it may not focus exclusively on the SMART acronym, the principles align closely with setting clear and actionable objectives. It's a valuable resource for gaining a broad understanding of goal-setting methodologies.
Based on John Hattie's extensive research on factors influencing student achievement, this book applies those findings specifically to literacy instruction and curriculum design for K-12. It provides evidence-based strategies for designing literacy curriculum that has a high impact on student learning outcomes. It valuable resource for curriculum designers focused on improving literacy development.
Provides a comprehensive exploration of the theoretical underpinnings of curriculum and their relationship to educational practice. It delves into various curriculum ideologies and their implications for what is taught and how. It valuable resource for deepening understanding of the philosophical and theoretical debates within the field, suitable for advanced students and those seeking a robust theoretical foundation.
Understanding the principles of persuasion is beneficial for sales, marketing, leadership, and general professional interactions. Cialdini's classic book outlines key psychological triggers that influence decision-making. provides valuable insights for effective communication and negotiation.
Provides a clear and practical guide to the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation), a widely used systematic framework for instructional and curriculum design. It offers a step-by-step process for developing effective learning solutions, applicable across various contexts and modalities. This book valuable reference for anyone involved in the structured creation and implementation of curriculum.
Proposes a system for achieving more in a shorter timeframe by focusing on 12-week cycles rather than annual goals. It emphasizes clear vision,डेनियल planning, and disciplined execution, complementing the principles of SMART goals by providing a framework for action and accountability. It's valuable for those looking to accelerate their goal achievement.
Focused on productivity and overcoming procrastination, this book is highly relevant to achieving goals by prioritizing and tackling the most important tasks. The concept of "eating the frog" aligns with focusing on the crucial steps needed to reach objectives, complementing the planning phase of SMART goals. It provides actionable techniques for improving time management and execution.
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Introduces the concept of "flow," a state of complete absorption and enjoyment in an activity. Understanding flow can help individuals identify and engage in activities that contribute to their personal growth and well-being. It offers a psychological perspective on finding satisfaction and purpose.
Introduces the theoretical foundations of cognitive task analysis and provides a practical guide to conducting CTA studies.
A seminal work in critical pedagogy, Freire's book challenges traditional educational models and advocates for a liberatory approach that empowers learners through dialogue and critical consciousness. While highly theoretical and philosophical, it offers a powerful lens for examining the social and political dimensions of curriculum. This classic is vital for curriculum designers interested in equity, social justice, and transformative learning experiences.
Advocates for transforming curriculum to meet the demands of the 21st century, focusing on skills like critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and digital literacy. It explores how to update curriculum to be relevant in a rapidly changing world. It key resource for curriculum designers seeking to create forward-thinking and contemporary educational programs that prepare learners for the future.
Is essential for anyone transitioning into a new role, whether it's a promotion or a move to a new company. It provides a roadmap for successfully navigating the critical initial period, focusing on accelerating learning and achieving early wins. This highly practical guide for career transitions.
This handbook offers an in-depth look at the intersection of cognitive psychology and education. It covers key cognitive processes relevant to learning and provides research-based insights for improving educational practices. It's a valuable resource for researchers, graduate students, and advanced undergraduates interested in the cognitive science of learning.
Drawing on their experiences as Navy SEALs, the authors translate military leadership principles into powerful lessons for business and professional life. emphasizes taking responsibility and leading with discipline, offering a rigorous perspective on leadership development.
Seligman, a founder of positive psychology, presents research on the power of optimism and how it can be learned. offers strategies for developing a more optimistic outlook, which can significantly impact resilience and personal well-being.
Practical guide to designing and delivering experiential learning programs. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to use this approach in their teaching or training.
A short but impactful classic in the field of success literature, this essay identifies the single most important factor shared by successful people: the habit of doing things they don't want to do in order to achieve the results they want. This principle is directly applicable to the discipline required for pursuing and achieving SMART goals, particularly the 'Achievable' and 'Time-bound' aspects that demand consistent effort.
Explores the science of productivity and includes a chapter specifically on goal setting, referencing the origins and impact of SMART goals at General Electric. It provides insights into how individuals and teams can become more effective in achieving their objectives by understanding the psychology behind productivity and goal setting. It offers a contemporary perspective on the topic.
Explores the use of task analysis in the design of educational materials and learning environments.
Presents a renowned system for organizing tasks and managing workflow, which is highly relevant to the execution phase of achieving SMART goals. By providing a method for capturing, clarifying, organizing, and engaging with tasks, it helps individuals stay on track with their action plans. It's a useful reference tool for improving productivity and managing the steps required to meet goals.

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