Course Objectives

The course will provide students with insight into outdoor life as a cultural and social phenomenon. An important aspect of the course is how outdoor recreation acquires meaning within and through social and cultural contexts. The course demonstrates how cultural and social-science concepts and theories may throw light on the outdoor recreation traditions. Students will gain a deeper insight into outdoor recreation as a cultural phenomenon. They will also acquire a deeper understanding of the distinctive character and diversity of the Norwegian outdoor traditions and a basic understanding of the cultural and social-science perspectives within the field of outdoor life.

Course Description

- Outdoor activity research in Norway
- The outdoor recreation phenomenon and concept; various theoretical approaches
- Outdoor activities, continuity and change, tradition and modernity
- Outdoor activities and the society’s institutions
- Outdoor recreation, identity and personal development

Learning Methods

The course is taught during the spring semester. It includes lectures, seminars and group projects. The study groups consist of 5-6 students who will focus on topics related to the lectures, and the students will also be encouraged to take up a variety of themes in plenary.

Assessment Methods

Three-day graded individual home-examination.

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