Our Changing Planet: Climate Change and Wildlife Connections

This course is intended to improve participants’ climate literacy and ability to communicate about issues surrounding climate change, particularly as they relate to wildlife. Frequent connections to climate justice rooted in hope, community, and resilience will be interwoven with understanding the drivers and impacts of human-caused climate change. We will explore the mitigation and adaptation strategies being employed by WCS. Additionally, participants will engage in discussions and reading analyses to explore how climate change impacts humans and wildlife – topics such as conservation decision making, applications of climate science in the classroom, government involvement in changing climate, and personal environmental responsibility will all be explored.

This course will help participants better understand concepts in science, instill the values of environmental conservation, and inspire them to share their expertise and enthusiasm with students and colleagues. Participants will receive instructional resources they may use immediately, to supplement their curriculum as well as promote student interest and engagement in learning. Course activities and assignments will encourage participants to explore different methods of science instruction and discover the value of teaching Climate Change science across the disciplines. The content will be differentiated to accommodate a diverse audience; from those with little experience teaching and learning in science to those who are professional science educators.