Course Objectives

The student will receive a practical and theoretical introduction to the challenges and possibilities inherent in the use of the natural environment as an arena for travel experiences. One aim is to demonstrate how various fields of specialisation can be used in the development of nature-based tourism products. Upon completing the course, the student will have a better understanding of how the natural environment can contribute to an improved travel experience and will be more familiar with various techniques and methods which can be used to explain the natural environment.

Course Description

Principal themes for the workshops:

• Travel and experience tourism
• Natural resources, ecology and landscape
• Sustainable experiences and management
• Mediation and the guide’s role

Presenting a good and sustainable range of outdoor experiences requires an understanding of tourism, natural resources and land use management. The ability to mediate and guide is also extremely important. This course will provide insight into the possibilities and challenges posed when utilising the natural environment in the development of tourism products. The main emphasis will be on the subject field in both national and international contexts. Through practical exercises students will gain practice in mediation and techniques related to the guide role; the workshops will focus on this aspect of the course.

Learning Methods

The course consists of obligatory workshops. The workshops will be located at the Bø campus and an external location that will include accommodation. The teaching at the workshops will vary between presentation of the subject material, outdoor teaching, group exercises and contributions from players and others within the field of nature-based tourism. Groups of students will work on project assignments related to travel experiences in natural surroundings.

Assessment Methods

Assessment is divided into two parts: a project assignment with oral presentation will form 40% of the final grade. The other 60% will be based on a 4-hour final examination. Both parts must receive passing grades in order for the student to receive a passing grade for the course as a whole.

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