Virtual learning will enable local teens to have a unique opportunity to explore Yosemite National Park in the US and learn how climate change impacts communities around the world, all from the safety of their own homes.
As one of the side effects of the global pandemic, educators and organisations have had to start thinking outside of the box about how to use technology to replace experiences which would have been face-to-face only 12 months ago.
This is what NatureBridge, with support from the Alcoa Foundation, has done; offering its popular annual study program in a virtual format this year due to travel restrictions associated with the coronavirus pandemic.
The program usually involves free international expeditions.
The Virtual Alcoa Scholars program will run between March 22-25 over four interactive sessions.
It is on offer to 15 to 18-year-olds who live in communities near where Alcoa has its operations.
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Alcoa Australia Corporate Affairs manager Suellen Jerrard said given the popularity of the program and the benefits it had delivered many local students, it was pleasing to see it was continuing, albeit in a different format.
"The program has always been hugely popular with students across our host communities in Australia and this new format will ensure even more can reap the benefits without undertaking any travel during these uncertain times," Suellen said.
"We believe the virtual program offers a fantastic opportunity for tomorrow's leaders to engage with real environmental issues and apply that framework to their local community and strongly encourage interested students to apply."
To register for the program, visit naturebridge.org/dlalcoa.
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