Natur and culture in the Arctic

The course can not be taken as a single course.

The course is compulsory for students in the program Arctic Nature Guide, and as elective for students in Bachelor in Arktisk friluftsliv og naturguiding.

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.

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.

If you pass the examination in this course, you will get an reduction in credits (as stated below), if you previously have passed the following courses:

• FRI-2581 Value-based Guiding and Teaching in Arctic Nature 5 ects
• FRI-2583 Value-based Guiding and Teaching in Arctic Nature 5 ects

Language of instruction and examination

More info about the coursework requirements

• Active participation in compulsory teaching and field trip

• Photo documentation in groups

• Information paper (individual)

• Oral presentation of information paper

• Group assignment in Svalbard’s history

• Species test

Re-sit examination