Environmental science education study examining storytelling and AI-supported learning receives Editor’s Choice distinction

PHOENIX, Sept. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — University of Phoenix announces that the peer-reviewed study, “Harnessing AI, Virtual Landscapes, and Anthropomorphic Imaginaries to Enhance Environmental Science Education at Jökulsárlón Proglacial Lagoon, Iceland,” has been recognized as an Editor’s Choice paper by Glacies.

Published in February 2026, the study explores how character-driven narratives and human-centered artificial intelligence can support adult learners in understanding complex environmental science concepts. The article was authored by Jacquelyn Kelly, Ph.D., associate dean, College of General Studies; Dianna Gielstra, Ph.D., full-time faculty, Environmental Science Program, College of General Studies; Tomáš J. Oberding, Ph.D., full-time faculty, Environmental Science Program, College of General Studies; Jim Bruno, MBA, associate dean, College of Business and Information Technology; and Stephanie Cosentino, MAEd, senior instructional designer, University of Phoenix.

The recognition highlights research conducted within the University’s “Principles of Environmental Science,” a course serving non-science majors and adult learners. The study examined the use of character-driven storytelling and AI-generated imagery, developed through a human-centered, faculty-guided design process, to help learners engage with scientific concepts and environmental systems.

“The cryosphere plays a critical role in Earth’s environmental systems, yet it is a topic often reserved for advanced scientific study. We wanted to create an accessible entry point into this important science. By bringing together immersive virtual landscapes, narrative storytelling, and human-centered AI, we designed a learning experience that helps adult learners see scientific processes as connected, dynamic, and relevant to the world around them.”

Innovative approaches to environmental science education

The study describes how the course uses a storybook-inspired format to introduce environmental science concepts through approachable characters and narratives. Characters such as Nico Nitrogen, Remi Rock and Waverly Water personify scientific processes and cycles, providing adult learners with accessible entry points into complex topics while maintaining alignment with course learning outcomes.

“Recognition by Glacies as an Editor’s Choice paper reflects the quality of scholarship being produced by our faculty and academic leaders,” said Briana Houlihan, MBA, dean, College of General Studies. “Research such as this demonstrates how innovative instructional approaches can help make complex scientific concepts more engaging and accessible for adult learners while contributing to broader conversations about teaching, learning and technology’s role in design.”

Researchers reported positive student responses to the instructional approach. According to the study, 87.1% of surveyed students reported enjoying the anthropomorphic narratives, while 82.0% agreed the approach reinforced systems thinking. Qualitative feedback indicated that narrative framing and consistent visuals helped learners visualize relationships among Earth systems and communicate scientific concepts more effectively.

Supporting engagement among adult learners

The authors present the work as a practical model for courses serving non-science majors and working adults. By combining narrative-based learning experiences with carefully guided AI-supported visual development, the approach seeks to make abstract scientific concepts more approachable while supporting learner engagement and understanding.

The Editor’s Choice recognition by Glacies acknowledges the study’s contribution to ongoing conversations about environmental science education, instructional design and the thoughtful application of artificial intelligence in higher education learning environments.

Access the study

“Harnessing AI, Virtual Landscapes, and Anthropomorphic Imaginaries to Enhance Environmental Science Education at Jökulsárlón Proglacial Lagoon, Iceland” is available online through Glacies at https://doi.org/10.3390/glacies3010003.

About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is Built for Real Life. 50 Years Strong. The University innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world through flexible online learning, relevant courses, academic AI pillars, and skills-mapped curriculum for associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. Active students and alumni have access to Career Services for Life® resources including career guidance and tools. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

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SOURCE University of Phoenix