Gatineau, Qc.—6 November, 2008—Students on Ice Expeditions is accepting applications for the International Polar Year (IPY) Antarctic University Expedition 2009, a two week ship-based field course leaving Argentina on February 14th, 2009 returning February 28. This expedition provides a wonderful opportunity to study in one of the most exceptional and remote places on Earth. Our theme for this expedition is ‘Environmental Leadership’ and weaves itself through our education program in conjunction with our ongoing exploration of the history, culture, general science, and politics of Antarctica. One of the objectives of this expedition is to provide students from around the world the opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice by providing experiential learning and field experience during the early stages of their academic career. Once in Antarctic waters, all students will make frequent field trips to the Antarctic mainland via inflatable Zodiacs from the main ship. These landings will be supplemented by lectures and lab exercises in dedicated space aboard our expedition vessel, the M/V Ushuaia.
The IPY Antarctic University Expedition 2009 has been endorsed by the IPY Joint Committee as a prominent and valued component of the IPY program. A key component of the Students on Ice – International Polar Year Youth Expeditions series, it represents one of the largest Education and Outreach initiatives in the World for the International Polar Year 2007-2009. The expedition will have approximately 70 University students, and 19 University faculty, scientists, experts, and educators. Undergraduate and graduate students from around the world and from any University can apply to embark on this first ever university expedition to Antarctica.
The education program will use an interdisciplinary approach to examine the uniqueness of the Antarctic continent, its political, scientific and exploration history. Students on Ice is bringing together university faculty members, researchers and students to experience the most extraordinary classroom on the planet, the Antarctic. The expedition provides firsthand experience of the effects of climate change and an increased awareness of the environmental issues facing our societies. Currently, Students on Ice has four partner universities offering accredited courses during the expedition, University of Alberta, University of Northern British Columbia and the University of Ottawa. Concordia University is also giving the opportunity to students to complete an internship during the expedition. The courses being offered during this expedition are in glaciology, Antarctic tourism and Practical Study in Earth and Atmospheric Science. Students are coming from around the world to participate in this expedition. Faculty members from other universities will also be joining the expedition to participate in developing a long term strategy and program for future university expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctica.
Interested students, professors and sponsors are welcomed to contact us to participate in this extraordinary expedition. For more details please visit the expedition website www.uantarctic.org.
About Students on Ice: STUDENTS ON ICE is an award-winning organization offering unique learning expeditions to the Antarctic and the Arctic. Our mandate is to provide students from around the world with inspiring educational opportunities at the ends of our earth, and in doing so, help them foster a new understanding and respect for the planet. Additional information can be obtained through the Students on Ice Web site at www.studentsonice.com
About International Polar Year: The International Polar Year (IPY) 2007-2008 is a two year program of science, research & education focused on the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Canadian and international researchers from universities, northern communities, and governments are working to advance our understanding of cultural, social, economic and health dimensions, as well as geophysical, climate and biological processes in polar regions.
For further information, contact: Eric Corneau
Special Projects Coordinator| Coordonateurs des projets spéciaux
Students on Ice Expeditions | Expéditions Students on Ice
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