Beyond the Ice: The Interconnected Arctic Mosaic

Embark on an illuminating five-week journey into the rapidly evolving Arctic, a region at the forefront of unprecedented planetary change and intensified global challenges. This virtual, asynchronous, and self-paced course is designed for a diverse audience, including formal and non-formal educators, early career professionals, and lifelong learners seeking a foundational understanding of this vulnerable polar region.

Course Overview: Arctic Literacy for Global Action

The Arctic functions as a critical gear within our global climate stability, acting as a vital regulator for our entire planetary system. This course offers a comprehensive survey that explores the intricate components of the Arctic climate system and their profound interconnectedness. The curriculum is framed by the Polar Literacy Principles and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Learning Objectives, empowering participants to move from passive observation to becoming responsible change-makers.

A Holistic and Relational Approach

A core strength of the course is its focus on braiding different knowledge systems. It actively weaves together Indigenous Knowledges (IK) with Western science and research to provide a relational understanding of the region. This approach recognizes that learning ultimately supports the well-being of the self, family, community, land, and spirits.

Seven Core Learning Modules

Participants will explore the Arctic through seven interdisciplinary lenses:

1. Earth’s Polar Regions: Defining the Arctic through geographical, climatic, and political criteria.
2. Frozen Ice (The Cryosphere): Investigating the dynamics and ecological significance of sea ice, glaciers, and permafrost.
3. Movement and Circulation: Analyzing how atmospheric and oceanic circulation, such as the Beaufort Gyre, govern global climate.
4. Arctic Food Buffet: Assessing the structure of food webs and the impacts of environmental stressors on biodiversity.
5. Arctic Climate and How it is Changing: Evaluating primary evidence of change, including Arctic Amplification and its ripple effects.
6. Arctic People: Exploring the rich cultural heritage, contemporary governance, and resiliency of Indigenous communities.
7. Observing the Arctic: Investigating the advanced technologies—such as satellites and drifting buoys—alongside Indigenous-led platforms like the SIKU social network.

Action-Oriented Pedagogy

The course utilizes a Learning Activity Choice Board, allowing students to tailor their experience by developing products such as community action plans, policy analyses, or educational infographics relevant to their specific professional context.

Professional Development Benefits

• Credentials: Earn a certificate for 15 continuing education hours from Wild Rose Education.
• Graduate Credit: Option to earn one Graduate Credit Hour through Adams State University for an additional $55.
• Flexible Format: 100% virtual and self-paced, requiring approximately 15 hours of engagement over the term.

Summer 2026 Term Details

• Dates: June 13–July 19, 2026.
• Registration Deadline: June 11, 2026.
• Fee: Sliding scale of $150, $175, or $200.

Presented by Sarah R. Johnson, MAEd, climate action and solutions educator, PolarTREC Educator, and Delegate Observer at UNFCCC COP26, this course will help you build the "Arctic Literacy" essential for navigating our changing polar world.

Register for the Summer 2026 Term now >>