Journey to Churchill Objectives

Interpretive Objectives

• The visitor will learn the basic ingredients for life in the extreme conditions of the Arctic’s vast, beautiful expanse, including how animals and people are adapted to seasons, day/night cycles, isolation, extreme winds, and subzero temperatures.
• The visitor will connect through emotions and science to a complete picture of the effects of environmental change on the Arctic, especially on polar bears, and understand their role in, and effect on the ecosystem.
• The visitor will engage with the body of science re: Arctic and climate change, discover global efforts on polar bear conservation and institutional transparency, and gain an understanding of what support is needed.
• The visitor will be motivated to learn more about the Arctic and Subarctic, and to visit Churchill and Wapusk National Park.
• The visitors will learn about research that is being done with and by Zoo partners.

Emotional Objectives:

• The visitor will experience a soaring sense of joy at the beauty of the polar bears and their environment depicted in the exhibits, feel pride toward the Zoo and Manitoba for the work being done on behalf of the polar bears, and experience a new sense of respect for the animals and conditions of the Arctic and Subarctic regions.
• The visitor will feel ownership and a sense responsibility towards their actions as they relate to environmental change and conservation.
• The visitor will feel upbeat, hopeful, and compassionate about his/her ability to affect change in the Arctic.

Behavioural Objectives:

• The visitor will dedicate himself/herself to assisting in the conservation of this vital place.
• The visitor will understand and articulate the issues around climate change and polar bear conservation.
• The visitor will change behaviours that have a measurable, positive result for a conservation outcome, will take personal responsibility, and will support institutions that make a difference.