My expedition concluded on July 31, but I continue to process what I experienced. One of the deliverables required of the fellowship is implementing an action project and community outreach that connects to the expedition. Before my expedition, I thought a lot about how I could extend my experience in the classroom. However, this evolved and continues to do so.
In preparing for my expedition, I read three non-fiction books to gain a base understanding of Iceland before exploring crime fiction by Icelandic author Ragnar Jónasson. I'm glad I made the time to read in advance; it gave me a foundation to build my learning and make connections.
While exploring a photography exhibit at the National Museum of Iceland, I connected the photos of children playing free outside of adult supervision to the Names for the Sea by Sarah Moss, where she wrote about how this aspect of Icelandic culture influenced her children when they lived there.
Before going into the geothermal spa, GeoSea, I instructed my cohort mate on the importance of a proper shower before entering public pools in Iceland. This tip (and others) I learned from The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland: Tips, Tricks, and what the Icelanders really think of you by Alda Sigmundsdóttir.
#3: Bleary-eyed from a red-eye flight, I perked up during a bus tour in Reykjavík when the guide pointed out the white house where Gorbachev and Reagan met in 1986. This little nugget came from .
I mention this here as a reminder that early exposure doesn't dampen curiosity or learning but heightens it; it gives room to deepen it.
Back to the question: how do I develop a meaningful, engaging action project for my students?
A few thoughts:
#1: Iceland has a population of 375,200 (Source: Data Commons, 2021), with over 2 million tourists a year before the COVID pandemic (Source: Icelandic Tourist Board). Maine's population is1,372,247 (2021) (Souce: Data Commons) and, according to the Maine Office of Tourism, 2022 had over 15,000,000 million visitors. Essentially, there are 5+ tourists for every Icelander, and for every Mainer, 10+ tourists. Both Iceland and Maine rely heavily upon tourism for our economy. While tourism is important to both regions, it impacts our way of life and natural spaces. Could responsible tourism be a theme?
#2: During my expedition, I observed scientists communicate with travelers in a way that was meaningful, accessible, and non-judgmental. I wonder if this type of communication inspires change in folks not wired to understand complex science. If my students saw science play out differently outside of the classroom, I also wonder if it would inspire them. Could partnering with KELT and engaging in citizen science while diving into different science careers be a theme?
#3: As an island nation, Iceland, like Maine, has a deep maritime history and relies heavily on the fishing industry. Could exploring marine industries and fisheries be a possible theme?