CLab: Destabil Arctic (IFW)

1 Credit · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Please visit the application web page for more information,requirements, eligibility, and contingency plans if travel is not an option due to Covid-19 restrictions. The Arctic region is undergoing a rapid transformation due to climate change. Temperatures are warming at a rate never encountered in the geological record. There are few places on Earth where the convergence of science, technology, policy making, and diplomacy are more critical than in the Arctic. This semester course (3cr) and the associated experiential one-week (1cr)will train students to better understand and solve some of the unique problems that have emerged in the Arctic over the last decade. For those students who are interested, the 1 credit course will provide time for students to do intensive research and set-up meetings, expanding their network in Alaska with local community leaders. If conditions allow, we hope to offer travel to the Arctic in Alaska either over spring break or in early summer. (All travel is subject to change based on GU Travel Policy, Health & Safety conditions; and consultation with indigenous AK communities. See application page for details and contingency plans). Later in the semester,students will organize and lead a half-day “Arctic Solutions Forum” on the (either from AK or online) to bring together policymakers and thought leaders to tackle Arctic challenges. Students must have some background related to the course topic as demonstrated by prior coursework (e.g. STIA 305, 364, 373) or experience. Although some knowledge of the region is helpful, it is not required.