FRIW201 Friluftsliv Winter

Contents and structure

Friluftsliv Winter integrates theoretical study with field-based practice in winter mountain and forest environments. The course develops foundational knowledge and experience for safe Nordic backcountry skiing under winter conditions, with particular emphasis on terrain assessment, snowpack characteristics and evolution, weather interpretation, and human factors in decision-making.

A core theoretical component examines the cultural traditions of friluftsliv, the historical development of backcountry skiing, and perspectives from Norwegian polar exploration. Experiential learning is central and includes overnight excursions utilizing huts, tents, and snow caves, where students plan and execute journeys, refine campcraft and travel techniques, and practice leadership in cold environments.

First aid training addresses the specific challenges of winter contexts, including prevention and management of cold-related injuries, hypothermia, and field evacuation considerations. The navigation module advances map interpretation, compass proficiency, and the use of a clinometer for slope-angle assessment (e.g., avalanche-relevant terrain), alongside basic GPS skills to support route finding and safety.

Collectively, these elements build competence in safe, sustainable, and culturally informed winter travel, aligning the practice of friluftsliv with contemporary standards in risk management and outdoor leadership.

Excursions:

• Day and multi day excursions with Nordic backcountry skis
• Winter expedition in tent and snow cave
• Ski technique in ski resort

Learning Outcome

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

Knowledge

The student will be able to:

• Demonstrate foundational knowledge of Nordic backcountry skiing, including its cultural traditions and historical development.

• Explain and relate the key factors that shape decision-making in winter travel—terrain, snow conditions, weather, and human factors—and their interactions.
• Describe core principles of winter navigation, including map interpretation, compass use, slope-angle assessment (clinometer), and basic GPS application.
• Explain fundamental first-aid concepts for cold environments, including prevention, recognition, and initial management of cold-related conditions (e.g., hypothermia, frostbite).

Skills

The student will be able to:

• Design and execute safe backcountry skiing itineraries, including route selection, hazard identification, mitigation strategies, and contingency planning.
• Navigate effectively in winter conditions using map and compass, slope-angle assessment (clinometer), and basic GPS, while maintaining situational awareness in reduced visibility and adverse weather.
• Provide first aid appropriate to cold environments (e.g., hypothermia, frostbite, cold-related injuries) and construct emergency snow shelters (e.g., bivouac, quinzee, snow cave) to enable immediate care and survival.

General competence

The student will be able to:

• Independently plan, execute, and evaluate Nordic backcountry skiing tours, demonstrating sound judgment in route selection, risk management, group care, environmental stewardship, and reflective practice.
• Facilitate and adapt winter friluftsliv sessions for diverse learner needs using experiential methods and appropriate risk management in cold environments.

Entry requirements

None

Recommended previous knowledge

Students should 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 course employs a varied blend of instructional approaches, including field-based excursions, lectures, seminars, and both group and individual work. Wherever feasible, theoretical content is integrated and examined through practical teaching to strengthen the connection between theory and practice. During trips and excursions, methodological considerations are foregrounded, alongside the development of personal competence and the progressive mastery of outdoor skills. Students are actively engaged in the full cycle of experiential learning—planning, executing, and evaluating excursions.

Compulsory learning activities

1) Reflection Essay — Meeting Friluftsliv through Fjellski

A reflection paper on your engagement with winter friluftsliv through fjellski. The essay should:

• Demonstrate growth in understanding the values, practices, and competencies of winter friluftsliv.
• Integrate theory and practice, explicitly connecting experiential learning to core concepts.
• Employ academic conventions, including clear structure, precise terminology, and appropriate citation of relevant literature.

2) Group Project — Comprehensive Trip Plan for a Organized Fjellski Excursion

A collaboratively developed trip plan that includes:

• Purpose and learning objectives, route selection with maps, logistics, roles and responsibilities, and communication protocols.
• Safety procedures and systematic risk assessment, including avalanche-relevant terrain analysis, mitigation strategies, and contingency planning.
• Emergency response planning, cold‑environment first aid considerations, equipment lists, and winter navigation plan
• Sustainability measures, explicitly incorporating Leave No Trace principles tailored to the chosen environment.

Approval Requirement: Both assignments are mandatory. Each must meet the specified criteria and receive formal approval to satisfy course requirements and achieve a passing grade.

Assessment

Written exam, 5 hours. Graded from A-F (A is best, F is fail).

Examination support material

None

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