Knowledge of Land, Seas and Environment in the Arctic
This course explores the unique land and environmental characteristics of the circumpolar Arctic region with a strong emphasis on sustainability, justice, and traditional knowledge. Participants will engage with a variety ofperspectives and literature, including geography, political ecology, environmental science, and policy studies. The course will be built around the following themes: different ways of environmental knowing and thinking about environment, Arctic ecosystems and resources, justice and sustainability, decision-making and governance. By the end of the course, students will have a strong understanding of the Arctic's position in global importance, where to find scientific data and resources related to Arctic resource governance and key ideas of justice for the Arctic climate and environment.
Through these themes, the course examines some of the most important issues in land, sea, climate, ecology and natural resources of the North. Together, the course introduces students to the key issues involving interaction between people and the environment in the world's Northern regions. As such, this course will be beneficial to student attempting to better understand the current issues facing the North, as well as those planning to pursue advanced studies about the region or sustainable development.
Knowledge and understanding
The student:
- has knowledge of important topics, theories, problems, processes, tools and methods in the land- and environmental studies in the circumpolar North
- is familiar with research and development work in the field
- can update his/her knowledge in the land- and enviromental studies.
- is familiar with the history, traditions, distinctive nature of land and enviroment studies and their place in society
Learning Outcomes
The student:
- can understand and explain the unique environmental and ecosystem characteristics of the circumpolar Arctic.
- is able to discuss concepts of justice and implications for the environment, climate and resource development.
- can understand the principles of sustainability and how they apply to the management of Arctic resources.
- has gained an understanding of different types of knowledge, including traditional knowledge, and its role in shaping Arctic knowledge landscapes.
- can understand how policies at various levels of governance impact Arctic decision-making.
- has developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the development of a course portfolio.
Skills
The student:
- can apply academic knowledge within the field of land- and environmental studies to practical and theoretical problems and explain his/her choices
- can reflect on his/her own academic practice and adjust it under supervision
- can find, assess and refer to information and academic material in the subject of land- and enviroment in the circumpolar north and relate it to an issue
- masters relevant academic tools, techniques and styles
General Competence
The candidate:
- has insight into relevant ethical issues relating to the land and enviroment in the circumpolar north
- can plan and carry out tasks and projects alone or as part of a group and in accordance with ethical requirements and principles
- can present important academic material such as theories, problems and solutions, both in writing and orally, as well as using other relevant forms of communication
- can exchange opinions with others with a background in the field and participate in discussions concerning the development of good practice
- is familiar with new ideas and innovative processes within land- and environment studies
Written assignments and individual home exam:
The written assignments (AK) are preliminary examinations, and have to be successfully completed, together with the home exam (HJ), in order for the student to be able to receive the formal grade and credits.
- 1 Annotated bibliography portfolio (around 50 citations)
- 1 Theme essays (4-5 pages)
- 1 Science poster + oral presentation
- 1 Report (6-8 pages)
Successfully completed preliminary examinations are valid the two subsequent terms after first attempt.
The exam consists of an individual take-home examination There will be one final grade using the regular Norwegian grading system (A-F).
The exam must be answered in English.
