CSPC 2018

Organized by: Polar Knowledge Canada, Jennifer Sokol

The planet is changing rapidly and nowhere more so than in the Arctic, where a warming climate is already bringing a multitude of environmental, social and economic consequences. This is raising a lot of questions about what the future is going to look like, how to prepare and the type of research and knowledge necessary to address these changes.   This panel will discuss opportunities to grow the base of northern scientists, including Indigenous researchers, across the North. Too often, northerners are participants within Arctic science but not recognized as knowledge holders and researchers themselves. Despite a renewed focus on Indigenous Knowledge systems, few Indigenous researchers are being acknowledged and accredited for their contributions. Northern-based educational institutions and universities that use pedagogical approaches in line with the cultural contexts of the north could help increase the number of northern researchers. During this panel, we will hear from a diverse range of voices including educators, northern youth, and institutions; all working to engage northern Indigenous communities in research.
Hosted by Polar Knowledge Canada, the panel will discuss questions including the following: what tools and support systems are needed to encourage northern youth towards research careers? How can we better reflect Indigenous knowledge and approaches in research? What barriers do northern students face in entering a science career and higher education? What kinds of policy, programming, and coordination are needed to address these barriers, improve northern self- determination in research, and northern research capacity?

Polar Knowledge Canada's mission is to advance Canada’s knowledge of the Arctic and other circumpolar regions including the Antarctic, and strengthen Canadian leadership in polar science and technology, while promoting the development and distribution of knowledge, across the north.