Course Objectives

The course aims to develop an understanding of traditions shaping the Norwegian view on the individual and the environs and society; gain insight into the interaction between nature and culture in Telemark; gain knowledge of basic skills underpinning outdoor life. Introduction to guiding and leadership in the outdoors

Course Description

During the course the student will be presented with attitudes and understandings of nature in the period of pre-industrial nature management and also with traditional exploitation of nature, cultural traces and heritage. The history and development of free-activities in the natural environment, and the ways in which this influences Norwegian society will be discussed. Diversity, right of public access to open country including laws and bylaws and ‘no-trace hiking’ will be reviewed. Experiental learning is an integral part of this course. Training in several areas of open-air activities: Activities in the snow, play in the snow, nordic skiing, Telemark skiing, guiding and leadership, safety rules. Skis and boots will be provided. Study trips are compulsory.

Learning Methods

2-3 hrs/week, 16 weeks pr semester, spring semester. (variable organization due to teaching methods)

Lectures, group work, individual study, field studies. English is the course language.

Please note that there are extra fees connected to this course since the students will have to pay for transportation. Approx. N.kr. 1000,-

Assessment Methods

One graded take home paper. Compulsory field trips.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean