autumn 2015
FRI-2581 Value-based Guiding and Teaching in Arctic Nature - 20 ECTS

Type of course

The course can't be taken as a single course, just for students in the programme of Arctic Nature Guide and 2. yeard of Bachelor in Arctic friluftsliv.

Course content

Value-Based Guiding and Teaching Arctic Nature will be taught throughout the whole of the academic year. The course includes a theoretical approach and a practical focus through field trips, practical work and leadership assignments. Part of the teaching of this course will be carried out at UiT in Alta at the end of first semester. The course is divided into 3 main themes:
  • Nature Guide Role - 7,5 ects
  • Experience Production and Value-Based Guiding - 7,5 ects
  • Nature and Culture in the Arctic - 5ects

Objectives of the course

Knowledge

  • Theoretical knowledge of leadership and the hosting of groups in the natural environment based on relevant research.
  • Theoretical knowledge of experience production in nature-based tourism;
    and knowledge of the background and basic values of the Norwegian Friluftsliv tradition and eco-philosophy.
  • An understanding of the nature, culture, history and geopolitical conditions in the polar region. 

Skills

  • Have the ability to be a host, mediator and leader of groups in the polar region
  • Be able to facilitate and enhance a guest¿s experience of nature and in that context, create space for reflection and contemplation;
    and be able to lead groups in vulnerable nature on nature¿s terms and without leaving any trace.
  • Be able to recognize most arctic plants, birds and animals; and have the ability to disseminate knowledge about the polar region to various groups

General competence

  • Be aware of their own leadership style and guide role; and be aware of the demands tourism makes on a nature guide and their own role in a tourism business.
  • Be aware of the connection between good experiences and learning of guests in natural environments.
  • Develop awareness regarding their own values related to guiding and instruction in the Arctic nature
  • Be aware of the ecosystem of the Arctic nature; and be aware of what role nature guides can play as ambassadors and friends of the vulnerable Arctic environment with regard to interaction with the guest.

Language of instruction and examination

English is the language of teaching and exam.

Teaching methods

Nature Guide Role

This theme will be taught throughout the year with a focus on individual development. The teaching will include a combination of theoretical lectures, joint reflection discussions, guide and management assignments on all the trips, systematic self-evaluation and student evaluation; and supervisor discussions and case work. Practical training as a guide in a tourism business is an important part of the course.

Experience Production and Value-Based Guiding
This theme will begin with an intensive period of instruction during the study period UiT in Alta. The course will consist of seminars, workshops, group work, joint reflection and project work. After completing the period of study in Alta, students will start on their project in experience production. This will culminate with polar night products on Svalbard, which students will perform with guests at the beginning of the spring semester.

Nature and Culture in the Arctic
This theme emphasises knowledge of the Arctic nature. Instruction includes practical activities in the field, theoretical lectures and self study. The practical part of the course will be taught during  excursions mentioned under the course Safe Guiding in the Arctic. The content of the course will naturally follow the rhythm of the Arctic nature throughout the year. The course will have an intensive period of instruction during the period of study at UIT the university of Arctic in Alta


Assessment

The following course requirements must be approved before the candidate may be allowed to take the exam:

  • In the theme Nature Guide Role the candidate must have his/her practice placement and report approved according to the practice placement criteria.
  • Planning, implementation and presentation of group project on one of these student projects: polar night experience production, arrangement at the local sun-festival, arranging Camp Svalbard Winter or managing the guest in front of the summer ski excursion. 
  • Individual written assignment on the project concerning experience production, which must be submitted and receive a passing mark.
  • Assignment on the theme of Arctic nature which must be submitted and receive a passing mark.
  • Pass the test in to recognizing arctic plants, birds and animals.
  • A summer ski trip will be carried out as a concluding activity of the academic year. Candidates working together will be responsible for the entire execution of the trip and will receive various assignments related to the role of guide; they will be evaluated as pass / fail by the teacher.

An individual written home exam over five days in the spring semester on the course Value-Based Guiding and Teaching Arctic Nature.

The grade vil bee given by litters from A - F, A is the best result and F is fail.


Error rendering component

  • About the course
  • Campus: Svalbard | Annet |
  • ECTS: 20
  • Course code: FRI-2581
  • Tidligere år og semester for dette emnet