autumn 2025
FRI-1130 Natur and culture in the Arctic - 5 ECTS
Course content
The course provides basic knowledge about Arctic species, geology, natural processes, climatic conditions, and regulations/rules related to nature and the environment in the northern areas. It also offers insight into various cultures in Arctic regions, with an emphasis on Svalbard, as well as Svalbard's cultural history and the dissemination of this information.Objectives of the course
Knowledge
The student
- Has insight in the largescale meteorology for the Arctic in general and the local effects and weather prediction in special.
- Is familiar with research and development work in the field of sustainability in nature-based tourism.
- Has basic knowledge in the field of nature, culture and geopolitical conditions in the Arctic region.
- Demonstrates knowledge of northern cultures in general and Svalbard's cultural history in particular
- Has basic understanding of geological and ecological and processes relevant in the Arctic
Skills
The student
- Can apply knowledge to recognize most common arctic plants, animals, vegetation and geological features
- Master relevant tools, techniques and styles to convey knowledge about the Arctic nature and culture to various groups.
- Can recognize vulnerable terrain types and cultural sites and thereby be able to undertake legal actions
- Can interpret weather forecasts and weather signs and use this in trip planning and decision-making
General competence
The student
- Can use own ecological and cultural knowledge to provide guests with a sense of place
- Has broad knowledge about changes in climate and the impacts this has both on the natural environment and the northern communities
- Is able to use achieved theoretical and practical knowledge in the development of own guide role
- Can acquire a level of legal, ecological and cultural understanding appropriate to the environment in which they will operate after education.
- Is aware of what role nature guides can play as ambassadors and friends of the vulnerable Arctic nature regarding interaction with the guest.
Schedule
Examination
| Examination: | Duration: | Grade scale: |
|---|---|---|
| School exam | 4 Hours | A–E, fail F |
Coursework requirements:To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements: |
||
| Teaching and field trip | Approved – not approved | |
| Photo documentation | Approved – not approved | |
| Paper | Approved – not approved | |
| Oral presentation | Approved – not approved | |
| Group assignment | Approved – not approved | |
| Species test | Approved – not approved | |
- About the course
- Campus: Svalbard |
- ECTS: 5
- Course code: FRI-1130
- Responsible unit
- Idrettshøgskulen
- Earlier years and semesters for this topic