Learning outcome

After successfully completing the course, the candidate will have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence.

Knowledge

The candidate has knowledge of:

• Skiing and using crampons in groups on steep spring slopes and exposed ridges in the mountains
• Planning trips according to ability, safety procedures and guidelines
• Equipment and its correct use
• Alpine nature and culture
• Weather in alpine regions
• Mountain sports and the history of outdoor life in relation to mountainous regions
• Assessing avalanche dangers in relation to spring snow
• Assessing glaciers in relation to downhill skiing

Skills

The candidate can demonstrate/explain:

• Skiing techniques in order to ski safely and efficiently up and down steep spring slopes
• Crampons technique, securing techniques and rope team techniques when moving alternately between snow, ice and rock
• Rescue techniques using approved methods on snow-covered glaciers
• Using securing techniques alternately on snow, ice and rock
• Solid and appropriate choice of methods using skis, crampons and ice axes under demanding conditions
• Physical and mental resiliency on long ascents and descents
  

General competence

The candidate can:

• Maintain their own and the group’s safety on snow, ice and rock alternately, with a view to creating a safe learning space
• Demonstrate an awareness of didactics and methodology related to the training of beginners on steep spring slopes and on exposed mountain ridges
• Give instruction concerning safe trip guidelines, procedures, organization and working methods in relation to beginners
• Teach nature and cultural topics related to alpine areas
• Plan and execute trips and courses on steep spring snowy slopes and exposed mountain ridges
• Design and keep to good schedules for trips in alpine areas in spring

Course Description

• Ascending peaks on glaciers, ridges, runs and snow flanks
• Alpine hazards
• Ski ascents in the alpine areas in the spring
• Securing on snow, ice and rock
• Rope team routines and ridge traverses on steep snowy inclines
• Using fixed ropes
• Rope teams in alpine areas, natural securing methods, intermediate anchors, and leading the rope team
• The history of mountain sports
• Further knowledge of glacier landforms

Teaching and Learning Methods

• 1 lecture
• 7 days with supervisor

• Tuition, reading of curriculum literature by students, and training skills that correspond to the learning outcomes described above. All practical teaching is obligatory.

The weather and skiing conditions will determine the planning of the preparation phase to some extent.

Assessment Methods

The course requires 100% compulsory participation in practical activities. The practical component counts for 60% of the course grade, and the 3-day home examination counts 40% of the course grade. The course grade is awarded on a descending scale using letter grades from A to E for passes and F for fail.

The assessment methods are designed to assess the candidate's knowledge, skills and competence, and ability to communicate the subject; please refer to the learning outcomes above.

In relation to content and level, the course provides candidates with a solid basis for application to glacier instructor courses in the NF scale (method courses and guide courses). Telemark University College is an approved organizer at level I in NF. Students will receive a diploma for the completion of trips and teaching after completing the course.

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