Norwegian friluftsliv: Erasmus + Blended Intensive Programme, University of Stavanger, Norway

Ten BEd 2 Physical Education specialist students along with Susan Marron and Rachel Rafferty participated in an Erasmus + Blended Intensive Programme at the University of Stavanger, Norway18^th- 24^th May 2024. A Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) is a format of Erasmus+ mobility that combines online teaching with a short period of physical mobility. The aims of this BIP were to (i) Enlighten and discuss challenges in outdoor life, nature and sustainability with a focus on Norwegian friluftsliv (outdoor living) (ii) Interrogate how nature-based tourism can promote awareness to protect nature, while experiencing the value of nature. The students from 4 Universities- University of Stavanger Norway, Thomas Moore Belgium and Catholic University of Valencia (UVC) Spain and DCU participated in an online seminar where two readings related to Norwegian friluftsliv were critiqued. This was in preparation for the face-to-face element which involved hiking and camping in the mountains for 4 days experiencing Norwegian friluftsliv values and practice in a sustainable context. Before departing on the 4-day hike, Åge Vigane, UIS, Norway, led lecturer and student discussion and reflection on Norwegian friluftsliv, what is it, values to society and the curriculum and philosophy in teaching friluftsliv. Students interrogated their strengths and challenges ahead of the hiking event. On return the students and lecturers had a debrief seminar on the high moments and the challenging ones personally and socially of the event. The lecturers presented their research and contexts exploring future possibilities while also experiencing Norwegian friluftsliv. The DCU students will share their experience and how the event could contribute to their future teaching at an event in the autumn.