FRI101 Friluftsliv, Nature and Culture

Contents and structure

Friluftsliv, Nature and Culture focus on Norwegian outdoor traditions in the regional landscape and nature of Western Norway. The course builds on Norwegian outdoor traditions with a comparative lens to outdoor practices and cultures of the students' home countries. Through lectures, seminars and self-study the course will provide different perspectives on friluftsliv, nature and culture and how these relate in different contexts. The perspectives and contexts presented in the course include, but is not limited to education, history, social studies and sustainability.

The students' own experiences with nature is a central part of working towards the learning outcomes in the course. Through several day and multiday excursions, the students will explore their own understandings of friluftsliv, nature and culture and how the relationships between these can be understood. The students will also learn basic outdoor skills as well as knowledge about the natural environment.

Excursions:

• Costal excursion in sea kayak
• Mountain excursion
• Forest excursion
• Winter excursion

Learning Outcome

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

Knowledge

The student

• has general knowledge of norms, regulations and laws related to the practice of outdoor activities
• has general knowledge of the fjord landscape, geology, glaciology and regional eco-systems of Western Norway
• has insight into the influence of the landscape on Norwegian friluftsliv culture
• has insight into philosophical, social and educational issues related to outdoor activities

Skills

The student

• can demonstrate basic practical skills in outdoor activities, based on the local nature and culture
• can apply academic knowledge and practical skills in the local environment, such as glaciers, mountains, and fjords

General competence

The student

• can independently and critically continue to develop his/her competence and specialization in the practice field of outdoor education
• can critically assess the values and norms that characterize friluftsliv and various forms of outdoor activities
• can contribute to sustainable and environmentally friendly development in the field of outdoor education

Entry requirements

None

Recommended previous knowledge

Be prepared for overnight excursions in tents 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.

Compulsory learning activities

As a course requrement the students must have two writing assignments approved.

The student will through the writing assignements:

• Demonstrate the candidates understanding for friluftsliv, nature and culture as a study subject
• Relate and discuss theory on friluftsliv, nature and culture to practical experiences
• Communicate knowledge and experiences through texts

The writing assignments are mandatory and must be approved to pass the course.

Assessment

Portfolio Assessment will include 2 written papers that together will be graded from A-F (A is best, F is fail).

Examination support material

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