Inclusive programming inspiring youth through freshwater science
Details:
12:00 – 12:50 pm
6th of December
Room: 1N-206-207
Sarah Warrack
Our goal for this presentation/workshop will be to understand how we engage and intertwine knowledge from our Indigenous Partners, as well as how we have tailored several outdoor educational youth programs supporting marginalised youth, women/girls, as well as culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. At IISD-ELA we believe in the power of engaging youth directly in with the outdoors, using hands-on science to inspire an interest and motivate youth to examine the world around them, kickstarting the process of lifelong learning. We will explore three outdoor education programs created: MeDLEY (Monitoring eDNA and learning ecology with youth); ELSE (Experimental Lakes Student Experience); and LEAF (Learning at ELA about Freshwater), their successes, failures. Some of the topics we will discuss are how to use science to interact with the environment, conducting an independent research project and communicating their findings in a scientific poster to their local community. We will discuss recruitment strategies, how we tailor our programs and supports we have in place for marginalised youth, women/girls, and CALD communities. We integrate career exploration using tests, expert roundtables and mentorships, supporting youth in the outdoor sector as they transition from school to the “real world”. Through outdoor education and science exploration, ultimately supporting marginalised youth, women/girls, and CALD communities, we are creating space for everyone creating a more inclusive outdoor sector.
About the Presenter
I have researched microplastics in fish, lakes and rivers in Manitoba. Canada, as well as microplastic behaviour. I have been a teacher for 10 years both over seas, and in Canada. I am currently the Education and Relations Manager for IISD-ELA (International Institute for Sustainable Development- Experimental Lakes Area), where I create scientific content for teachers, youth and the general public. I also create programs for youth to help to engage in the next generation of freshwater scientists.
