FRI302 Nature philosophy and slow friluftsliv (Autumn 2024)

Introduction

The course will address people’s relationships with nature. It draws on historical and philosophical perspectives and discussions on friluftsliv, and the relationships between people, nature and society. The course presents ‘slow friluftsliv’ as a concept and pedagogical method inspired by nature philosophies.  
In the course’s sessions, students will explore sensations and first-hand experiences in nature, practice the didactics of slow friluftsliv, as well as consider the value of encountering nature, from both a personal, environmental and educational perspective. 

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, students should be able to

•  explore the philosophy of nature and different perspectives on human-nature relationship 

• articulate how various perspectives on nature philosophy and relationships between humans, nature and society are expressed in discourses concerning friluftsliv  

• utilize creative and aesthetic forms of expression in work with sensory experiences and slow friluftsliv 

• apply slow friluftsliv as a concept and pedagogical method in a variety of contexts 

• reflect on slow friluftsliv, human-nature-relationships and sustainability 

Learning methods and activities

The course utilizes a range of pedagogical approaches, from teacher-led lessons to student-facilitated sessions involving planning, execution and assessment of their own and peer work. Key texts and first-hand experiences with nature and slow friluftsliv will be explored during lectures and further examined during group activity and seminars. The course incorporates several brief and longer excursions into the local surroundings, along with ‘seminars in the wild’, to experience and explore slow friluftsliv.  

Work requirements

To take the exam in the subject, the following work requirements must be approved 

•  Submission of drafts for their portfolios 

• Participation in group sessions to evaluate assignments 

• Active and constructive participation in day outings and multi-day trips is required.  This includes all preparatory, on-trip, and follow-up activities.  If a student is at risk of not fulfilling these criteria, they will be notified in writing by the course organizer. If the student’s performance does not improve markedly, they may fail the trip element of the course to be considered to have completed the course.   

In special cases, where absence is due to extenuating circumstances, the course coordinator, in discussion with the student, will seek alternative ways to fulfil the mandatory assignments.   

Assessment/exam

Portfolio comprising three different assignments and tasks. Approved / not approved. 

Students must attend and participate fully in at least 80% of lectures and 100% of the field trips. Approved / not approved. 

Core literature

 

Core literature for fall 2024.