Course content

Introduction to Norway is a course intended to help foreign students at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology to develop knowledge and understanding of different aspects of Norwegian history, politics, culture and contemporary society at a foundational academic level. This basic knowledge should also contribute to better educational and social output from the study period at the students home faculties and improve students integration into the Norwegian society and culture. The course also provides an arena for inter-cultural communication. The language of lectures, exam and other study activities is English.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The Candidate

• has knowledge about the modern political and social history of Norway and the development of the modern welfare state
• has knowledge of Norwegian topography, demography, climate and natural resources and how this can explain social, political and economic development
• has knowledge about the Norwegian political system, political parties and important political discussions
• has knowledge about the political economy of contemporary Norway
• has knowledge about Norwegian foreign policy and foreign relations
• has knowledge about childhood and the educational system in Norway
• has knowledge about religion in Norway and important Norwegian values
• has knowledge about languages and literature in Norway
• has knowledge about ethnic minorities with a particular emphasis on the Sami population

Skills

The Candidate

• is able to describe and discuss the knowledge elements presented above at a foundational academic level
• is able to critically analyze the political and social development of Norway in light of its history, topography and demography
• can find and discuss digital and analog information about Norway

General competence

The Candidate

• understands various paths of national development
• has developed her/his proficiency in oral and written English

Learning methods and activities

Teaching is organized in 8-10 teaching sessions. These will include lectures, discussions and in-class exercises. Basic information on all course activities and requirements will be given at an information meeting early in each term. The main channel of communication and contact between students and between students and the academic staff is Blackboard (a learning management system). Students are supposed to get basic information about and access to Blackboard at their home faculties. Students are expected to log on to Blackboard regularly to keep themselves well informed. Information posted on the Introduction to Norway area of Blackboard is defined as known by all students.

Recommended previous knowledge

We recommend students to have a good command of English.

Required previous knowledge

The course is especially developed as an introduction for foreign exchange students at Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and is open to foreign students studying at Norwegian University of Science and Technology for a shorter or longer period.

Course materials

Final curriculum list will be posted in Blackboard before the start of the semester.

Credit reductions