Reconnecting People, Place, and Nature: Analyzing the Impact of Cross-Cultural Experiential Learning Expeditions for Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Youth

Abstract

In a world marked by ecological disconnection and cultural fragmentation, youth are increasingly distanced from the ocean and the more-than-human world. Experiential and cross-cultural education thus offers a pathway to rebuild these relationships by fostering emotional, ecological, and cultural connections through direct engagement with land and sea. This research explores how cross-cultural experiential learning expeditions influence Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth’s relationships with nature, the ocean, and themselves. Using the Students on Ice Foundation’s marine expeditions aboard the R/V Polar Prince (Oqwatnukewey Eleke'wi'ji'jit in Mi’kmaq) as a case study, the research examines how immersive, intercultural experiences foster ocean literacy, environmental identity, and stewardship. A qualitative approach grounded in relational inquiry was used and data were collected through an online sharing circle with four alumni of Students on Ice Foundation marine expeditions. Thematic coding of transcripts was guided by both deductive and inductive reasoning to identify emergent patterns. Key themes included the life changing nature of expeditions, connection, meaningful experiences with the natural world, responsibility and stewardship, cultural revitalization, giving back to community, and reconciliation. Expeditions thus fostered transformative shifts in youth identity, relational accountability, and ecological awareness. This research contributes to marine management and environmental education by demonstrating how immersive, intercultural programs can reconnect young people with the ocean and foster more sustainable, relational approaches to stewardship.