Monday the 13th of January the International Friluftsliv class met with the Norwegian Frilufslivs class for the first time doing a Monday activity. We met outside Spicheren, went through Jegersberg and ended up at Holmenkollen where we lighted a campfire. By the fire we played some ice-breaking activities and games.

The purpose of this day was to mainly to get to know each other, mixing the Norwegians with the internationals. In group development terms it is the forming stage. We discussed common interests but also norms. We agreed that everyone should speak English not to leave anyone out. Even the Norwegians to each other which seemed to be strange for them. As I am from Denmark, I understand Norwegian so I felt in the middle, because I could speak and understand everyone. I tried to be good at navigating and helping out with language barriers if they occurred.

Originally, we were supposed to go to “Den Omvendte Bot” but due to icy conditions the Norwegians changed the plan. It shows how important it is to be flexible and be able to adjust to the weather. Especially in Norway, where changes can happen fast.
I have learnt many new names that I hope I can remember to next time we will mix with the Norwegians again. I think it is important to get to know each other well to have a good group dynamic and in order to get to know the Norwegian culture on a much deeper level.