Study plan - Outdoor Education and Nordic Friluftsliv

Outdoor Education and Nordic Friluftsliv is a 30 ECTS semester program running in the autumn semester. The semester program consists of two modules of 15 ECTS and is offered exchange students with at least one year of relevant studies. The students will learn about Norwegian outdoor traditions (friluftsliv) and share outdoor practices and cultures of their home countries. Through several day- and multiday excursions, the students will learn basic outdoor skills as well as knowledge about the nature environment. Through two theoretical and practical modules, the students will specialize in Friluftsliv, Nature and Culture and Outdoor Leadership.

Learning outcomes

After completion of the semester program Outdoor Education and Nordic Friluftsliv, the candidate will have acquired the following learning outcomes, defined as knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The candidate

• is able to communicate knowledge of outdoor education and plan and implement selected outdoor activities
• has knowledge, insight and the ability to critically assess the values and attitudes that characterize Friluftsliv and various forms of outdoor activities
• 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
• has insight into philosophical, social and educational issues related to outdoor activities  
• is able to plan, organize and implement trips with safe outdoor activities for various group
• is familiar with and employ appropriate methods in academic research and development work in outdoor studies

Skills

The candidate

• is able to demonstrate basic practical skills in outdoor activities, based on the local nature and culture  
• is able to apply academic knowledge and practical skills in the local environment, such as glaciers, mountains and fjords
• has acquired basic knowledge and experience of planning, organizing and guiding in various types of outdoor activities 
• can design, facilitate and lead groups in nature

General competence

The candidate

• can independently and critically continue to develop his/her own competence and specialization in the practice field of outdoor education
• is able to plan and implement safe outdoor activities for various groups
• can analyze relevant academic and practical issues and implement projects in the field of outdoor education
• can contribute to a sustainable and environmentally friendly development in the field of outdoor education
• is self-aware and can critically reflect on own leadership

Content

The program consists of theory and practical excursions in the fjord, forest, mountain and glacier. Students will acquire basic knowledge and experience in Nordic friluftsliv and safety and risk mangement. Friluftsliv, Nature and Culture have a focus on Norwegian outdoor traditions and regional landscape and nature. The main element of Outdoor Leadership is leadership work in theory and practice. Conditional leadership and group development is emphasised through several day- and multiday excursions. There are overnight excursions in huts, tent and self made forest hut. Along the course, the students will move from participants to leading, and facilitating the learning of their fellow students.

Practice

No placement.

Teaching

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 will help the students to reach the learning outcome of planning safe outdoor activities and trips, and using outdoor leadership to lead friluftsliv trips.

Assessment

One portifolio and one oral exam.