FRI301 Friluftsliv, learning and skill development (Autumn 2024)

This course aims to provide students with a broad theoretical and practice-based platform with which they can facilitate their own learning and skill-development within friluftsliv. The course presents different theoretical approaches to skill-development and features a broad variety of learning contexts. Students are expected to explore different activities and to apply their knowledge in the field of practice. The course is considered a specialization and thus a continuation of the subjects taught during the first two years of study. It aims to foster individual skill-development within one or more areas of activity, through theory-informed planning and implementation.
The course features a blend of lectures and workshops; outdoor practice in a variety of environments and landscapes; and independent activity and study. For class outings, students need to bring their own clothing and personal equipment in order to be safe and comfortable for extended periods of time outdoors. Information about what equipment and clothing to bring will be given at the start of the semester.

After completing the course, the student should be able to

• understand key theories and concepts central to movement learning
• describe different approaches to skill development used by professional coaches in activity-oriented outdoor activities
• employ appropriate theory to design and implement a personal skill plan
• demonstrate progression and skill-development throughout a personal skill acquisition plan
• critically evaluate their own performance in designing and implementing a skill development plan
• outline a practical understanding of how issues of equalities and diversity feature in skill-development discourses

The course features a variety of teaching methods that range from instructor-led teaching to sessions that the students themselves plan, implement and evaluate. Part of the teaching will take place on outing, where students will gain experience with various approaches to skill acquisition and skill development. Some trips will be led by teachers and others will be undertaken by small groups of students. The course may include field work, day and overnight trips, collaborative learning, lectures and presentations.

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

Active and constructive participation is required. 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.  

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

Assessment is done through a portfolio comprising three assignments.

• The first involves explaining the theoretical foundations of a personal development plan (PDP) for increasing one’s own skill in a specific outdoor activity.
• The second assignment features a detailed outline of the schedule for training, practice, coaching, and receiving feedback. It also notes key literature used, highlights alterations to the original plan, and examines the degree to which the program is being implemented well.
• The third assignment involves critically reflecting on the implementation of the PDP. It considers performance in relation to the intended learning outcomes and outlines ways in which learning from the PDP can be applied to circumstances beyond university courses.

The first assignment is a written assignment worth 30%. Assignment two is a multimedia presentation worth 40%. The third assignment may take different forms, as determined by the instructor and is worth 30%. Students will receive one final grade, ranging from A to F.
Students must attend and participate fully in at least 80% of lectures and 100% of the field trips. Approved/ not approved.

Core literature for FRI301 Fall 2024.