Private

FS 3.178

Mountains Matter: Intercultural Approach to Human Connection and Stewardship

Details

Full Title
FS 3.178: Mountains Matter: An Intercultural Approach to Human Connection and Stewardship of the Outdoors
Scheduled
Talks:
2025-09-15, 13:30 - 15:00 (LT), MCI – SR 303
Posters:
2025-09-15, 15:00 - 16:00 (LT), SOWI – Garden
Convener
Kacy Peckenpaugh
Co-Conveners
Cass Morgan, Gavin Roberts, Eric Hunter,
Assigned to Synthesis Workshop
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Thematic Focus
Culture, Education, Migration, Mobility, Sustainable Development
Keywords
Pedagogy, Interdisciplinary

Description

Many US American universities use international destinations to acquire intercultural competence to educate citizens to participate effectively in increasingly complex environments. International travel can be financially inaccessible, yet expanding such opportunities to more students also brings the issue of travel sustainability into question. These constraints can be alleviated when educators seek similar opportunities close to home. Weber State University, located in the Wasatch mountains in Utah (home to the 2002 and 2034 Winter Olympics) serves as an ideal location to explore the social, environmental, and economic value of mountain landscapes. As educator-scholars in the humanities, economics, outdoor education, and study abroad, we will share how we used local mountains as a pedagogical tool for high impact education (i.e., activities designed to foster student engagement). We explore an interdisciplinary course entitled, “Mountains Matter: An Intercultural Approach to Human Connection and Stewardship of the Outdoors,” in which domestic and international students were paired to facilitate intercultural learning and place attachment. Course learning focused on an appreciation of mountains through historical analysis, engagement in mountain cultures and sports, and an examination of the impacts of amenity migration as it relates to sustainable development and policy. Finally, we will discuss the challenges and opportunities of using interdisciplinary approaches to developing students’ understanding of the value of mountains.

Submitted Abstracts

ID: 3.9029

Teaching Endogenous Versus Exogenous Risk Through Avalanche Accidents and Risk Perception

Gavin Roberts

Abstract/Description

A fundamental challenge in decision-making under uncertainty is distinguishing between exogenous risks—those determined by external factors—and endogenous risks—those shaped by individual behavior. Avalanche accidents and backcountry recreation provide a real-world setting to illustrate this distinction. While avalanche risk is influenced by natural factors such as snowfall, individual behavioral responses to avalanche risk information, like terrain selection, endogenously alter both the probability and severity of avalanche-related accidents. This interaction between behavior and risk provides a framework for teaching students how decision-making can mitigate or exacerbate risks. Beyond avalanche safety, the concept of endogenous versus exogenous risk has broad applications, including finance, public health, and climate.

ID: 3.9815

Mountain microadventures: A tool to build place attachment and more sustainable travel

Cass Morgan
Peckenpaugh, Kacy

Abstract/Description

Adventure tourism scholars have emphasized the importance of promoting microadventures as a sustainable alternative to long-haul travel and a means of supporting locavism (e.g., McKenzie & Goodnow, 2020). Traditional adventure tourism has been widely criticized for its environmental and socio-cultural impacts, including carbon emissions, degradation of fragile ecosystems, commodification of cultural traditions, and economic leakage. In contrast, microadventures – short, local experiences that retain the core elements of adventure, such as physical and mental challenge, skill development, and engagement with nature (e.g., Boudreau et al., 2020) offer a more sustainable and accessible approach to adventure tourism. Their proximity to home makes them more financially viable, time-efficient, and inclusive, while also reducing the environmental footprint associated with travel (McKenzie & Goodnow, 2020). This session examines the integration of microadventures into a university course to deepen students’ understanding of sustainable adventure tourism. We will outline how we designed and implemented microadventure-based field trips—including skiing, snowshoeing, hot springs visits, and guided tours—leveraging our mountain campus as a living laboratory for experiential learning. These experiences introduced students to the theory of place attachment, highlighting its role in fostering more responsible and sustainable mountain travel. Additionally, we will present specific examples of high-impact formative and summative assessments that measure students’ evolving knowledge of sustainable tourism, providing concrete data on their learning outcomes and engagement.

ID: 3.9823

Expanding Intercultural Competence: Studying Abroad and the Power of Mountain Connections

Kacy Peckenpaugh

Abstract/Description

Studying abroad is widely regarded as one of the most effective ways for U.S. students to develop intercultural competence in order to foster adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and a deeper understanding of global perspectives. While there are clear benefits from such experiences, research indicates that study abroad does not inherently lead to these outcomes (e.g., Kinginger, 2008). Additionally, access remains limited for the broader student population due to financial constraints, academic obligations, and personal circumstances (Soria & Troisi, 2013). To bridge this gap, universities must intentionally design alternative opportunities for students to engage with diverse perspectives at home, so-called “internationalization at home” (Baldassar & McKenzie, 2016) that create immersive, experiential learning opportunities without requiring travel.

This presentation will examine how structured opportunities for deep and meaningful engagement across domestic and international student populations fostered students’ global awareness and connections. By integrating international and domestic students in field experiences and coursework that explored cultural, historical, and environmental relationships with mountains, students developed intercultural competence through shared challenges, collaboration, and reflection. The session will provide concrete strategies for designing activities that maximize intercultural connections, deepen cultural learning, and enhance global engagement at home.

ID: 3.10065

Science Lessons from the eternal Ice: Glaciers as a Gateway to an education for sustainable development

Philipp Spitzer
Martin, Gröger; Heck, Volker; Höper, Jan

Abstract/Description

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.

ID: 3.11001

From Challenges to Resilience: An Integrated Development Model for Mountain Communities

Pankaj Tewari
Narayan, Samiran; Singh, Narayan

Abstract/Description

Mountain communities in Uttarakhand face multitude of challenges with limited healthcare access, educational disparities, economic vulnerabilities, and gendered burdens. Women disproportionately engage in subsistence farming, fuel wood collection, fetching water and unpaid labour, while climate change worsens resource depletion, out-migration, and livelihood security. Aarohi, a grassroots organization founded in 1992 in Satoli, Nainital, addresses these challenges through an integrated approach spanning healthcare, education, livelihoods, and natural resource management (NRM)—contributing to SDG 3, 4, 5 & 13. Aarohi directly benefits more than 200,000 population in 480 villages of Uttarakhand with focus on women and youths. The healthcare program reaches 150,000+ people through comprehensive primary and secondary care at its cottage hospital and maternity clinic, complemented by a Mobile Medical Unit (MMU), India’s only ultrasound-equipped rural health vehicle. Community outreach efforts integrate maternal health, mental health, and non-communicable disease care while strengthening government partnerships to reduce out-of-pocket expenditures (OOPE) and improve health-seeking behaviours. The education program builds early awareness of healthcare, livelihoods, and environmental stewardship. Our school serves 190+ students, mostly first-generation learners, with gender-equitable education, digital literacy, and vocational training. The Education Outreach Program enhances public school quality by training teachers in experiential learning and arts-based pedagogies, fostering youth engagement in local economic activities. Aarohi’s livelihoods and NRM initiatives empower 1,780+ farmers across 134 villages through climate-resilient agriculture, organic farming, and sustainable water management. Women-led SHGs and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) drive herbal cultivation, natural skincare, and handicrafts, ensuring direct market access and financial independence. Innovations like solar dryers and fodder choppers reduce women’s drudgery, enabling participation in income-generating activities. Aarohi also actively engages with the governments as a policy stakeholder and ensures effective service delivery Through a complementary approach. By integrating health, education, livelihoods & NRM, Aarohi builds climate-resilient, self-sufficient rural communities, offering a replicable & scalable model for sustainable Himalayan development.

ID: 3.11250

Study on Female Participation in Outdoor Sports in the Catalan Pyrenean Population

Neus Guinovart Vendrell
PUIGARNAU COMA, SILVIA

Abstract/Description

This study investigates female participation in endurance sports in natural environments within the Pyrenean population. The primary objective is to assess the current level of engagement among women and analyze its evolution over time, with a particular focus on trail running. The research examines trends in outdoor sports participation before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, gender differences in endurance sports, and female involvement in competitions held in the region. To achieve these objectives, the study analyzes data from federation licenses and registrations in endurance sports events. Additionally, the study seeks to propose strategies for fostering gender equality in outdoor sports while ensuring sustainable growth. By presenting empirical data and actionable recommendations, this research aims to contribute to a more inclusive and balanced sporting landscape in the Pyrenees.

ID: 3.11259

The Importance of International Students for U.S. Universities: Learning, Connection, and Risk Management

Eric Hunter

Abstract/Description

International students bring diverse perspectives and experiences to U.S. universities, and outdoor experiences can serve as a powerful way to foster cross-cultural connections with domestic students. However, organizing outdoor experiences and field trips, particularly in mountain environments, requires careful risk management. Institutions must account for environmental hazards, varying levels of outdoor experience, medical preparedness, and legal liabilities. Cultural differences in familiarity with outdoor activities can impact students’ comfort and decision-making, making it essential to provide proper orientation and support. This presentation will examine best practices for managing risk while ensuring inclusivity and safety in outdoor programs that engage international students. By understanding how different backgrounds influence risk perception and preparedness, institutions can create effective strategies that promote both intercultural exchange and student well-being. For example, some students may come from regions where outdoor recreation is uncommon or where safety protocols differ significantly. This presentation will also consider how language barriers can create challenges in emergency communication and instruction.

ID: 3.11763

Indigenous Perspectives on a Traditional Cultural Landscape: incorporating oral histories, landscapes and archaeological data at the Wiggins Fork Buffalo Jumps Complex.

Crystal Reynolds

Abstract/Description

This project brings together tribal members and archaeologists, to explore a culturally significant landscape in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, aiming to tell the history of the area through both scientific data and oral traditions. The research focuses on an enormous communal hunting complex that includes a diverse range of cultural, residential, ceremonial, and food procurement components. The primary goal is to record the material culture in the area, systematically document its history and oral histories. The project employs a variety of methods including surveys, field schools, and ongoing collaboration between tribal members and scientific researchers. OSL (Optically Stimulated Luminescence) samples have been collected around the complex and compared with other regional sites to help refine the chronology of buffalo jumping in the area. Preliminary findings suggest that this buffalo jump may challenge the generally accepted timeline of buffalo jump usage in North America. The project is still in its discovery phase, cultural guidance and scientific documentation concludes multiple tribal groups utilized this hunting complex as part of their migratory routes. Future goals include further exploration of the landscape, mapping its features, and establishing geographic boundaries, and nomination to the National Register for Historic Places to ensure its protection.

ID:

MCI – SR 303

Abstract/Description

ID:

SOWI – Garden

Abstract/Description

FS 3.177: From Experiences of Loss to Transformation: Reimagining Mountain Areas in Times of Crisis and Beyond

FS 3.180: Agri-Food transition and citizenship: the role of citizens in systemic transformations

#IMC: September 14 - 18 2025

FS 3.178

Mountains Matter: Intercultural Approach to Human Connection and Stewardship

Details

Full Title

Scheduled

Convener

Co-Conveners

Assigned to Synthesis Workshop

Thematic Focus

Keywords

Description

Submitted Abstracts

Abstract/Description

Abstract/Description

Abstract/Description

Abstract/Description

Abstract/Description

Abstract/Description

Abstract/Description

Abstract/Description

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