Our Changing Planet: Climate Change and Wildlife Connections

Photo Credit: ©Vardhan Patankar/WCS

This course is intended to improve participants’ climate literacy and ability to communicate about issues surrounding climate change, particularly as they relate to wildlife. Participants will understand the drivers and impacts of man-made climate change, and will explore the mitigation and adaptation strategies being employed by WCS. Additionally, participants will engage in online 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 teachers better understand concepts in science, instill the values of environmental conservation, and inspire them to share their expertise and enthusiasm with students and colleagues. Teachers 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.

Location: NY Aquarium

  • Please note that this course includes 1-2 miles of walking outside every day. All paths are wheelchair accessible, see our webpage for NY Aquarium accessibility information. If you have any concerns or require accommodations, please contact your instructor.

Dates: July 17- July 22, 2023
Times: 8:00am-4:30pm daily
Price: $250
Course is eligible for: 45 CTLE Hours & 3 P-Credits or A+ Credit

Registration Closed

All in-person courses will follow current NYC COVID safety guidelines and mandates. For more information see the NY Aquarium's Know Before You Go page.

For more information about On-Site Professional Development, please contact: teacherinfo@wcs.org or (718) 220-5136

Meet Your Instructor

Shannen Rivadeneira (she/her)

A true innate lover of wildlife, Shannen Rivadeneira has dedicated her life to connecting with people from all over the world and inspiring conservation action. As a Professional Development Coordinator, Shannen seeks to build comfort and confidence in learning about the natural world. She holds a BS in Biological Sciences-Zoology from Florida State University and an MS in Conservation Biology from University of Central Florida. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England researching authentic cultural incorporation in community conservation programs.

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