Course Objectives

The course aims to provide students with an understanding of traditions shaping the Norwegian understanding of the individual, the surrounding environment and society; to provide them with insight into the interaction between nature and culture in Telemark and to provide knowledge of the basic skills of outdoor life.

Course Description

Students will be instructed concerning the prevalent attitudes and concepts concerning nature management during the pre-industrial period, as well as the traditional exploitation of nature, cultural traces and heritage. The history and development of recreational activities in the natural environment, and the ways in which this continues to influence Norwegian society will also be discussed. Diversity, right of public access to open land (including laws and bylaws) and ‘no-trace hiking’ will also be reviewed. Experiential learning is an integral component of the course. The course includes training in several types of open-air activities: tenting, canoeing,

sailing, hiking and open-air cooking. Appropriate equipment will be provided. Study trips are mandatory.

Learning Methods

2-3 hours per week, 16 weeks per semester, autumn semester.

Lectures, group work, individual study and field studies. English is the language of instruction.

Assessment Methods

Journal: pass/fail. Portfolio assessment including 1 essay: 25%. Final written report counts for 75%. All assessed elements of the course must be passed to pass the course.

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