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, in groups, on layered winter snow of up to 30 degrees on terrain of moderate difficulty

• Planning trips in winter according to ability
• Safe orientation on difficult terrain
• Assessment of snow conditions, danger of avalanche, safe route choice in the winter mountains according to the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) model
• Rescuing from avalanches
• Equipment and its correct use
• Nature and cultural topics related to winter mountains
• Weather in winter mountains

Skills

The candidate can demonstrate / explain:

• The correct orientation and safe route choice using a map, compass, GPS in moderate to difficult conditions
• Areas with potential for avalanches

• The most important rescue techniques when rescuing members of the group from an avalanche using shovels, probe and transmitters/receivers
• Appropriate skiing techniques during ascent and descent
• Solid and appropriate procedures for setting up camp in the mountains
• Thorough and appropriate procedures for equipment use, skiing and camping in the mountains
• Physical and mental stamina in the winter mountains in demanding skiing and weather conditions
• Current excavation techniques

General competence

The candidate can:

• Ensure their own and safety of the group during trips and camping in the winter mountains
• Demonstrate an awareness of didactics and methodology related to the training of beginners on trips in the winter mountains
• Create safe and well-functioning learning spaces
• Communicate safe guidelines, procedures, organization and working methods in relation to beginners
• Teach nature and cultural topics related to the winter mountains
• Plan and execute trips in the mountains
• Plan and execute simple rescue exercises

Course Description

• Trips in the winter mountains under moderate to difficult conditions
• Assessment of avalanche danger in relation to the snow-cover, terrain formations, degree of incline and weather conditions
• Human factors that influence decision-making in groups
• Summit trips with orientation and route choice
• Techniques for rescuing members of the group from avalanches

• Cooperation exercise with the organized rescue services: police, the Norwegian Red Cross Search and Rescue Corps, the Norwegian Search and Rescue Dogs, etc.

Teaching and Learning Methods

• 3 lectures
• 8 days with supervisor
• 8 days of individual trips

Assessment Methods

The course requires 100 % compulsory participation in practical activities: assessed as pass/fail.

3-day written home examination.

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.

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