Abstract ID: 3.10065 | Accepted as Talk | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA

Glaciers are among the most visible indicators of climate change, yet many students lack a fundamental understanding of their dynamics. The European project GlacierXperience addresses this gap by developing hands-on and model-based experiments on key glaciological phenomena as well as related alpine and polar phenomena. These experiments are presented in two virtual and VR-capable learning environments of a polar and an alpine glacier. Together with the Dachstein cable car, an outdoor laboratory was also implemented. This unique approach integrates experiential learning with an interdisciplinary educational framework, spanning the disciplines of natural sciences, environmental policy, and sustainability education. Students engage with model-based experiments and field investigations focused on topics such as glacial movement, permafrost melting, acid mine drainage, and heavy metal contamination in alpine water systems. The project also features a 360° virtual glacier experience and learning environment, providing access to these for most people inaccessible landscapes. The project has been developed through an iterative process involving over 80 students (ages 13–17), whose questions and misconceptions have directly informed the design of experiments and instructional materials. Their interest in glacier decline, carbon cycles, and potential climate solutions led to the inclusion of a dedicated “Future Lab” module, where students explore technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS) and their implications for alpine ecosystems. In the presentation we will provide insights into the development of the experiments and the virtual learning environment, as well as the implementation in the outdoor laboratory.