Outdoor Education

Introduction
There will be an emphasis on the acquisition of outdoor life skills, experiences and educational challenges in a professional and social environment through various activities. Students will gain knowledge communication skills and learn to provide guidance in outdoor education, which takes place in different natural environments, ranging from the coast to high mountains in the area.

Learning outcomes
Based on the experiences, knowledge and skills in outdoor activities, after completing the programme the students will qualify for the following types of acitivies:

• Use basic skills in simple traditional outdoor activities in natural environments in the winter and spring
• Reflect on the position of outdoor education in Norwegian society and why it is important to engage in outdoor activities for children and young people
• Perform methodological evaluations in outdoor life
• Plan, implement and evaluate walks in different environments that provide nature experiences
• Plan, implement and evaluate instruction in outdoor education for children and young people

Instruction
Varies between theoretical classes and experience-based teaching. Student-led tuition is part of the course. Instruction includes lectures, seminars, self study, field trips, guidance and teaching practice.

Admission
General admission to higher education. The programme requires good phsyical and mental shape that enables you to carry out training programmes in rough terrain with light or heavy pack. On field trips students will live in tents, Sami tents (lavvo) and snow caves.

Target groups are students enrolled in BA in Sports sciences at the Faculty of Arts and Education, University of Stavanger and exchange students from partner institutions.

Contents
For detailed information on subjects, please see each subject: 

Choosing subjects
The Outdoor Education winter module has two excursions that last for 8 days in total. The basic ski course stretches for 9 days. All field trips and courses are compulsory. The same applies to instruction and assignments related to shorter courses and excursions.

Practical activities and costs
The Outdoor Education programme and in particular the winter module places great demands on personal equipment. Some equipment, however, may be borrowed from the Sports sciences department of the university. Students must pay for equipment that cannot be borrowed, as well as costs related to field trips and courses.

• Canoeing - Paddling techniques
• Orienteering: Maps, compass and GPS
• First Aid and Life Support
• Fishing
• Outdoors activities in different natural environments
• Skiing techniques associated with cross-country, classis and skating
• Alpine and telemark skiing
• Backcountry skiing
• Climbing
• Surfing

Note: Changes may occur.