AB-208 “Internship in Arctic Biology” is a new course thaught the first time at The University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS) spring 2019. It was and is developed together with bioCEED colleagues from the University in Bergen (UiB) who teach similar courses with focus on practical experiences and work training for biology students.
The main learning activity in AB‐208 is an internship, equivalent to about 6 1/2 weeks of full time work. An internship in Arctic biology should make students aware of the extended range of their education, which means the potential for application of knowledge and abilities gained throughout their study. They are also supposed to gain a better understanding of the role biologists can play within society.
Through observation, co‐operation, supervision and practical work the intern shall be given the possibility to discover professional abilities and skills needed, and gain authentic work experience. Additionally, the internship shall provide possibilities to acquire new knowledge and skills not readily obtained in a class‐ room setting.
As part of the course, the students reflect on and discuss experiences and what they learn, and share their thoughts through various digital media like blog posts, videos etc. throughout the term. We also hope that these posts can be helpful for other biology students wondering about which path they can choose further or pupils who consider to study biology.