Semesters
NOW101 Norwegian Wood(s) – Nature and Crafts
This course provides students with a foundational understanding of outdoor education, the utilization of natural materials, and the crafting of objects in wood, textiles, and, where relevant, metal. Emphasis is placed on the repair and production of equipment for outdoor activities and traditional crafts, alongside an introduction to vernacular architecture and building traditions.
Students will acquire essential skills in both outdoor practices and arts and crafts, with an interdisciplinary approach that highlights Norwegian, Nordic, and Sámi cultural heritage. The course further integrates perspectives on health and sustainability, exploring how creative engagement with nature can foster resilience, mastery, and overall quality of life.
As an elective within the bachelor programs in design, arts and crafts, outdoor education and nature guiding, as well as sports, physical education, and health, the course promotes collaborative learning. Students will engage in interdisciplinary exchange and share experiences across diverse academic backgrounds.
In accordance with the National Qualifications Framework the student will achieve the following learning outcomes after completing the course:
The student:
- demonstrates familiarity with selected Scandinavian natural materials, their properties, and areas of application
- has knowledge about Norwegian outdoor life traditions and the Right to Roam, both from a historical and contemporary perspective, including relevant laws and regulations concerning travel, camping, and harvesting.”
- has insight into the use and production of tools, equipment, and materials within Nordic and Sámi cultural-historical contexts
- understands methods for teaching and communicating craft-based activities in natural settings
- possesses knowledge of the relationship between form, function, and construction in craftwork
- has knowledge of the health-promoting effects of outdoor activities and crafts, and how these contribute to quality of life
- demonstrates understanding of eco-philosophy, the intrinsic value of nature, forest conservation, and nature as a resource within a broad sustainability perspective (environmental, social, cultural, and economic)
The student:
- is able to travel safely in various natural environments, including coastal and forest areas, and demonstrates knowledge of outdoor first aid and lifesaving techniques
- can use simple hand tools appropriately and safely, including maintenance and care
- is able to identify, collect, and process suitable natural materials, applying appropriate tools and techniques for shaping products in wood and textiles
- can develop a product from concept and planning to a finished, functional result, and evaluate its functionality and aesthetics
- is capable of repairing and maintaining personal equipment
- can plan and implement an outdoor and craft-based activity for a specified target group
The student:
- can develop practical and creative abilities through engagement with nature and the use of natural materials
- is able to critically reflect on personal activities from sustainability and environmental perspectives, making informed decisions regarding equipment and resource use
- can reflect on the role of crafts and outdoor life in society and culture within an overarching sustainability framework
- is able to communicate the joy of creation and craft activities, individually and in groups, within a cultural-historical and interdisciplinary context
- can analyze and ensure safety in various craft and outdoor activities, both indoors and outdoors
Teaching is based on student-centered approaches that require active participation both outdoors and in the workshop. Instruction is organized through teacher-led activities, lectures, independent work, self-study, and group projects. Several components of the course are conducted as excursions, some involving overnight stays. A significant portion of the learning is practice-based. Students collaborate across disciplinary backgrounds through joint projects and the exchange of experiences.
Equipment and Skill Requirements:
The student should be comfortable spending extended periods outdoors and be able to take care of themselves in a safe manner. This includes being able to walk in varied terrain with a backpack, having basic physical endurance, and having appropriate personal outdoor equipment (see separate list of required clothing/equipment). On some trips, we spend the night in tents or other sim Teaching is based on student-centered approaches that require active participation both outdoors and in the workshop. Instruction is organized through teacher-led activities, lectures, independent work, self-study, and group projects. Several components of the course are conducted as excursions, some involving overnight stays. A significant portion of the learning is practice-based. Students collaborate across disciplinary backgrounds through joint projects and the exchange of experiences.
Teaching is based on student-centered approaches that require active participation both outdoors and in the workshop. Instruction is organized through teacher-led activities, lectures, independent work, self-study, and group projects. Several components of the course are conducted as excursions, some involving overnight stays. A significant portion of the learning is practice-based. Students collaborate across disciplinary backgrounds through joint projects and the exchange of experiences.
Teaching is based on student-centered approaches that require active participation both outdoors and in the workshop. Instruction is organized through teacher-led activities, lectures, independent work, self-study, and group projects. Several components of the course are conducted as excursions, some involving overnight stays. A significant portion of the learning is practice-based. Students collaborate across disciplinary backgrounds through joint projects and the exchange of experiences.
Attendence requirements:
- Approved participation in accordance with the university’s regulations for mandatory attendance (Regulations for admissions, studies and examinations at Volda University College ). Attendance is compulsory for most outdoor activities and for preparatory sessions related to these activities.
Course requirements:
All course requirements must be approved before the student is eligible to sit for the examination:
- Plan and implement an outdoor craft activity with a group and document the process, or produce an instructional video demonstrating an activity related to crafts and outdoor life
- Create a functional product in wood or textiles using appropriate tools, and reflect on the product within a cultural-historical context through a written reflection note
Grading in accordance with Regulations governing admission, studies and examinations at Volda University College – Chapter 10
Emnet vert evaluert i samsvar med HVO sitt kvalitetssystem. The course is evaluated in accordance with Volda University College’s quality assurance system
Students pay a material fee of NOK 400,- to cover materials and equipment provided for their use.
- Design, Arts and Crafts - bachelor
| Assessment Form | Grouping | Duration | Grading scale | Proportion | Comment | Support Materials | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Praktisk eksamen | Individual | 6 Weeks | A-F, A is the best grade and E is the lowest passing grade | 100% | A practical assignment accompanied with didactic reflection. |