Course content

The course provides an introduction to Norwegian language conditions, both written and spoken, with emphasis on variation and change across time and space. By acquiring terminology from grammar, dialectology and sociolinguistics, students will gain deeper insight into central dimensions of the Norwegian language situation. The course addresses language contact in which Norwegian features in different forms, and considers both older and more recent multilingualism in Norway. The long historical lines from Proto-Norse up to pupils’ present day are traced, with the language developments of recent decades - in both writing and speech - as the focal point. The topics covered are closely linked to the core elements of linguistic diversity and language as both system and resource. Students are introduced to theoretical concepts that illuminate connections between language, culture and identity, as well as analytical tools that provide a more nuanced understanding of linguistic diversity in individuals and society. In the learning activities, emphasis will be placed on exploratory approaches to the relevant themes.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE

The candidate has knowledge of:

• the main lines in the development of the Norwegian language, from the Proto-Norse period up to the present day, and in relation to neighboring languages
• central features of the history of written Norwegian from 1814 to the present
• changes in linguistic practices associated with recent developments in the media
• key aspects of the Norwegian language situation, with emphasis on multilingualism, language policy and minority languages
• the place of linguistic diversity, language development and language management in current policy for Norwegian in schools
• how comparative and contrastive approaches may be applied to enhance pupils’ linguistic awareness and understanding of their linguistic environment

SKILLS

The candidate can:

• apply central linguistic terms, with emphasis on language history, dialectology and sociolinguistics, in approaches to various language practices
• explain the main aspects of development from the Old Norse stage up to modern times
• explain central aspects of Norwegian language policy and language planning over the past two hundred years
• apply knowledge of how Norwegian typologically differs from and corresponds with other languages in learning contexts
• analyze different written texts with emphasis on variation across time and space
• explain how linguistic diversity and variation may be connected with identity
• use knowledge of diversity in language and culture as a resource in the teaching of Norwegian
• initiate and lead exploratory work with language in Norwegian teaching

GENERAL COMPETENCE

The candidate:

• has experience with digital tools and can facilitate their use in didactic activities adapted to specific recipient groups
• can use subject-specific knowledge for critical and constructive reflection
• is familiar with the main principles of advanced academic writing and has experience in locating and using up-to-date knowledge for academic discussions and presentations

Learning methods and activities

Online lectures, two in-person seminars (on campus), practical exercises, and collaboration through the learning platform. Students must have access to a computer with an internet connection.

Mandatory Activities:

Attendance at two in‑person seminars, each lasting two days and held on NTNU’s campus in Trondheim, is mandatory.

Additionally, each student must submit two assignments, which must be approved by the course instructor. These activities are graded as pass/fail and are not part of the formal assessment. However, they must be approved for the student to be eligible to take the exam.

The two written assignments must include representations of both official Norwegian written standards (Bokmål and Nynorsk).

Compulsory assignments

• Attendance at two mandatory two-day seminars
• Up to two written assignments

Specific conditions

Course materials

A reading list will be made available no later than the start of the semester.