How to Use Goals
Expertise in every domain has both common goals similar to all domains and special goals similar only to it. For every domain of expertise, we need to learn new ways to observe, think, interact, serve and comply. Reading an expertise map will make these terms familiar. A quick way to remember common goals is with the silly acronym OTIS-C. It sounds like the famous ancient Greek journey called the “Odyssey.”
Our research supports the idea that four more goals specific to each domain are sufficient for many purposes, like designing educational programs and choosing collaborators or mentors.
We introduce each domain of expertise with descriptions of how each of the nine goals applies to the domain. In this section we describe how each goal fits adventure travel. Focusing on travel has two big advantages. First, almost all of us have traveled, even if it is just in our home state or county. Next, we all have different goals and levels of experience. This is true of every domain of expertise, but understanding a familiar one like travel helps us see how to understand domains of expertise that we do not have.
COMMON PATHWAYS
OBSERVE (PLACE). When you travel, you aim for some sort of change. The first goal refers to how different a place you hope for.
THINK (PLAN). Some ways of making travel plans are much more difficult than others.
INTERACT (LANGUAGE). Our knowledge of the local language makes a huge difference in how we can interact with the people we meet.
SERVE (CULTURE). People often have little use for others who fail to understand and appreciate their culture.
COMPLY (BUREAUCRACY and CUSTOMS). Different locations have different laws and moral expectations.
SPECIAL ADVENTURE TRAVEL GOALS
CULTURAL RISKS. Some of us are much readier to take health risks or enter situations that might pose threats than others.
NATURAL CHALLENGES. Getting out in nature has its own risks and the deeper we go, the more likely we are to get dirty.
ACCOMMODATIONS. There are huge differences in what we prefer to sleep, eat, and shop in.
DOCUMENTATION. Do you hope to come home with memories or want more to look at years later?