Connecting Youth Using Arctic Mystery-Themed Kits

Climate change is affecting Polar Regions at a greater rate than other parts of the planet and bringing information about Polar Regions to learners in informal settings is an integral part of increasing polar literacy. Inspired by escape rooms and mystery-themed materials that have increased in popularity over recent years and necessitated by disruptions during the pandemic, the Arctic Mystery engaged youth in small groups by challenging them to work together to make claims based on evidence and reasoning. This CSI-style kit features Arctic ecology, geography, and local connections as well as scientific data, research materials, and field research as content through which youth solve the mystery of a scientist’s disappearance. Preliminary results from virtual user-testing indicate high engagement throughout the six-session program. Further testing is required to determine whether the kit is associated with gains in self-reported scientific identity, fascination in science, and valuing science. The kit’s versatile format may be successful in other formats, including asynchronous and in-person settings.