FRI302 Nature philosophy and slow friluftsliv (Autumn 2023)

Introduction

The course will address people’s relationships with nature and the significance of nature experience in Norwegian outdoor life—namely, friluftsliv. Drawing from historical and philosophical perspectives and discussions on nature, friluftsliv, and the relationship between people, nature and society, the course will present so-called ‘slow friluftsliv’ as a concept, pedagogical method and philosophy of nature.

 

In the course’s sessions, students will explore sensations and first-hand experiences in nature, as well as consider the value of encountering nature, from both a personal and educational perspective.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, students should be able to

 

• Possess knowledge about the philosophy of nature and different perspectives on humans in nature.

• Understand slow friluftsliv as a concept, work method and philosophy of nature.

• Explain different perspectives on the philosophy of nature and how relationships between humans, nature and society are expressed in discourses concerning friluftsliv.

• Plan, implement and develop slow friluftsliv for selected target groups and contexts.

• Use creative and aesthetic forms of expression while working with slow friluftsliv, sensations and pedagogical nature meetings.

• Reflect on the presence of humans in nature and on the potential importance of friluftsliv to both the development of sustainable societies and the green shift.

Learning methods and activities

The course will feature various teaching methods, ranging from teacher-led instruction to student-led sessions involving planning, implementing and evaluating their own and others’ work. Key texts and first-hand experiences with nature and friluftsliv will be processed during lectures and discussed during group work as well as seminars. The course will include several short and long trips into the local environment, and ‘seminars in the wild’, to experience and explore slow friluftsliv.

Work requirements

Full participation in scheduled outdoor activities is mandatory.

 

To be considered to have completed the course, students must also attend and participate fully in at least 80 % of lectures and other class sessions.

 

In addition, the student will have to hand in a sketch for the in-depth assignment. Approved/ not approved.

 

In special cases, where absence is due to extenuating circumstances, the course coordinator, in discussion with the student, will seek alternative ways of recapturing lost teaching/learning.

Assessment/exam

Assessment in the course consists of

 

• Portfolio/folder consisting of different assignments/tasks.

 

Each part and the folder in total will be graded pass-fail.

Core literature

As we are in a transition phase between two systems, we refer to the Study Handbook 2023-2024 for literature for courses in the 2023-2024 academic year:https://www.nih.no/studier/program-og-emneplan-arkiv/2023-2024/