Orienteering is a navigational sport using large–scale maps (1: 15000) and a compass to locate, as quickly as possible, a series of control points in a pre–defined order. Orientation of self and map are fundamental skills in the sport of orienteering. The traditional teaching or coaching of this skill is based on a hierarchical model. This model introduces the concept of location of self by initial reference to landmarks, then routes linking individual landmarks followed by configurations of these landmarks and routes. This model quite clearly aligns with the hierarchical model of spatial reference systems suggested by Seigal & White (1975). However, it is proposed that the process-oriented model offered by Downs & Stea (1977) may be more appropriate to orienteering. The model is based on orientation and then develops through route choice, route monitoring and route recognition. Orienteering behaviour, which is based on using map and compass information to select and follow a novel route in a multi-choice route following task, appears to follow this model.