Introduction to Norwegian Kindergartens and Schools

The goal of this course is to provide people with relevant pedagogical education from other countries, an introduction to Norwegian kindergartens and schools.

About the Course

The course provides knowledge about Norwegian kindergartens and schools, their values, and frameworks for pedagogical work and cooperation. It gives participants opportunities to reflect on how they can use their previous experiences and knowledge in the Norwegian educational context. The language of instruction will be Norwegian with written support in Ukrainian or English. The course is a national offering, and arrangements will be made to facilitate participation from across the country.

Admission Requirements and Application

Admission Requirements

• Completed and documented higher pedagogical education from abroad. The documentation must be either in Norwegian, Ukrainian, or English. The education does not need to be approved in Norway.
• At least language level A2, since the language of instruction is Norwegian.
• Ability to attend at least 80 per cent of the teaching, including two in-person meetings in Oslo and weekly digital meetings via Zoom.

Application Deadline

1 November. It is recommended to apply early due to high demand.

Target Group

The course is suitable for those who have pedagogical education within early childhood education or school from abroad and who wish to gain a better understanding of pedagogical work in Norwegian kindergartens and schools. The course does not guarantee employment or provide academic credits from higher education but can be a good starting point for further development of personal competence in a new context.

Course Structure

• Location: Online and in-person sessions
• Duration: 4 months
• Scope: Group sessions and online courses
• ECTS credits: 0 ECTS credits
• Semester: January

What Will You Learn?

Module 1: Framework for School and Kindergarten

• Introduction to laws and governing documents for kindergartens and schools
• The kindergarten as an educational activity: Responsibilities and roles
• The school system and school development in Norway: Responsibilities and roles

Module 2: The Value Base for Kindergartens and Schools

• Diversity and mutual respect
• Democracy, participation, and an inclusive learning environment
• Nature, health, and life skills and sustainable development

Module 3: Content and Educational Practices in Kindergarten and School

• The kindergarten's purpose: Care, play, and learning
• Professional practice and class management
• Multilingualism and linguistic diversity in kindergarten and school
• Adapted training and pupils with special rights in school
• The team surrounding the child and the student: Interdisciplinary collaboration and transitions
• Parental cooperation in kindergarten and school

Teaching and Learning Methods

The teaching will be conducted both digitally and through in-person sessions and will consist of:

• Weekly digital two-hour sessions for reflection together with teachers and other course participants
• Two mandatory in-person day-long sessions in Oslo
• Digital learning resources that can be completed at your own pace, including instructional videos, texts, articles, reflection tasks, and more

Course Requirements

An interview with a teacher in a school, leader of SFO/AKS (school-age childcare), or a pedagogical leader in a kindergarten about their pedagogical work. Based on the interview, participants must develop a reflection note that refers to the content of the course.

Costs

The course is free of charge. If participants travel from outside Oslo to the two on-site sessions, there is a personal contribution of 500 NOK. If travel expenses exceed 500 NOK, these can be covered by OsloMet.

Course Certificate

After completing the course, participants will receive a course certificate. To receive the certificate, a minimum of 80 per cent attendance is required at both the sessions on campus and the digital sessions, and the course requirements must be met and approved.

Other Study Offers

OsloMet provides further education for teachers with education from their home country, which gives 120 credits. OsloMet also offers an additional education in kindergarten pedagogy of 60 credits.

Oslo Metropolitan University

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Overview:

Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) is a metropolitan university located in Oslo, Norway. It offers a wide range of academic programs and is known for its strong focus on research and collaboration with industry and society.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

OsloMet provides resources and support for students, including information about student life and tips for navigating the university experience. The university also highlights the vibrant student city of Oslo, with its diverse cultural offerings and proximity to nature.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

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Metropolitan University:

OsloMet is situated in the heart of Oslo, offering students access to the city's cultural and professional opportunities. *

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Strong Research Focus:

The university boasts a strong research presence, with numerous active research groups and projects. *

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Collaboration with Industry:

OsloMet actively collaborates with industry and society, providing students with practical experience and real-world applications of their studies.

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Academic Programs:

OsloMet offers a variety of academic programs, including: *

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Bachelor's Degrees:

38 programs *

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Master's Degrees:

53 programs *

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Five-Year Master's Degrees:

5 programs *

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PhD Programs:

7 programs

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Other:

OsloMet emphasizes its commitment to collaboration with industry and society, aiming to strengthen partnerships in research, innovation, and education. The university also highlights its active involvement in research projects, including those funded by the European Union and the Research Council of Norway.