In this course the main focus will be to investigate the concept of outdoor life, and to critically address key issues in outdoor life/outdoor education philosophy and practice. Theory addresses social, historical and cultural influences on outdoor life, as well as the role of outdoor life in relation to values and attitudes concerning environment and sustainability. It aims to develop a deeper understanding of theoretical positions and their implications for outdoor education/outdoor life as well as the ability to critically analyse and reflect on principles for professional practice.

The student should:

• Understand the origin and development of the various activities and forms of social practices within outdoor life.
• Have explored a range of theoretical positions in the philosophy of outdoor life and their implications for individuals, nature and culture.
• Critically examine the relationship between outdoor life/outdoor education philosophy and practice.

The course will consist of thought components; seminars based around key readings, research findings and case studies; as well as a significant element of self-study. It includes a field trip; hiking in the backcountry of Oslo, tracing the heritage of nature life, visiting sites of historical importance and experiencing both modern and traditional Norwegian outdoor life.

Students will also take part in Norwegian cultural rites, such as the 17th of May (Constitution Day) and the Holmenkollen ski festival.

The course will emphasize critical examination of theory and practice. Course members will be expected to contribute actively and to apply their professional experience to the issues under consideration. Students will be expected to complete 30 hours of class contact time, in addition to 4 days of field trips, and approximately 160 hours of self directed study.

The students will submit an assay, maximum 15 pages if individual work, including front page and references, but excluding any appendices. All sources must be accurately cited and referenced using APA format 5th edition. Graded (A - F).

400 pages (mandatory) will be given at the start of the course. In addition, the student will select 200 pages of their choice to be approved by the teacher.