FRIW201 Friluftsliv Winter

Contents and structure

Friluftsliv Winter consists theory and practical excursions in the winter mountain and forest. Students will acquire basic knowledge and experience linked to safe backcountry skiing in winter conditions. Factors as; terrain, snow conditions, weather and the human factor are central in the Nordic backcountry skiing traditions. A theoretical part in Friluftsliv Winter are the cultural tradition rooted in the history of backcountry skiing and Norwegian polar history. There are backcountry skiing overnight excursions in huts, tent and snow cave. First aid has focus on challenges in a cold environment. Winter navigation demand an extended map understanding, compass knowledge, use of clinometer and basic GPS knowledge.

Learning Outcome

After completion of the course Friluftsliv Winter the candidate will have acquired the following learning outcomes, defined as knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge
The candidate:

• has knowledge of Nordic backcountry skiing, culture and history
• has knowledge about the factors: Terrain, snow conditions, weather and human factor
• has general knowledge of winter navigations
• has general knowledge of first aid in a cold environment

Skills
The candidate:

• is able to make safe trip plan for backcountry skiing
• is able to navigate in winter conditions
• is able perform first aid in a cold environment and to make a emergence shelter in the snow

General competence
The candidate:

• can independently make trip plans, implement and evaluate backcountry skiing tours
• can analyse the historical development and position of winter friluftsliv in Norway  

Recommended previous knowledge

Be prepared for backcountry skiing and overnight excursions in tent and be able to carry a backpack with own equipment on excursions.

Teaching methods

The teaching and learning methods are varied and will include excursions, lectures, seminars, group-, and individual work. The subject matter will as far as possible be integrated and experienced through practical teaching. On trips and excursions, methodological considerations will play a central role, together with a high level of personal ability and mastery of skills in outdoor activities. The students will be involved in planning, executing and evaluating the excursions.

Compulsory learning activities

To document the general competence of safe trip planning, implementing and evaluating backcountry ski touring, the students will present digitally theoretical reflections on their own learning experiences from the excursions through two blog posts in a themed blog. A blog can be tied either specifically to one of the excursions, or describe a learning process taking place over an extended period.

Assessment

Oral exam. Graded from A-F (A as the best).