Distance Learning

Ranger giving a distance learning program live using green screen technology.

NPS photo

Explore Wind Cave National Park virtually! Rangers offer a variety of programs about both the surface and subsurface areas of the park. Explore the world's most complex maze-cave or one of the last intact mixed-grass prairie ecosystems. These programs can be applied to all ages or used as a unique virtual experience.

We connect with educators over 4 platforms: Skype, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Zoom. These platforms can work for classes that are meeting in-person or when learning remotely. Our rangers can help walk you through it.

We offer Virtual Field Trips, Guest Speaking on National Parks and Wind Cave in particular, and Mystery Skype sessions.

If you have questions about the programs or technology possibilites please
e-mail us. Listed below are the programs we currently offer.

 

Exploring Wind Cave Virtual Field-Trip

Left image
Group of early tourists in the Model Room.
Credit: NPS

Right image
The modern view of a passage way along the Natural Entrance Tour with a ranger and visitors.
Credit: NPS

 

Students will learn how the cave was formed and about some of the unique features from formations to fossils found in Wind Cave. Students will examine how human population affects the cave environment, the cave exploration taking place in the past and today, as well as the unique challenge of preserving a cave that over 120,000 visitors go into each year.

 

Prairie: Protecting the Biodiversity of an Empire of Grass

Left image
Superintendent Sutter overlooking a herd of bison.
Credit: NPS

Right image
Rolling hills of green prairie with a bison herd grazing.
Credit: NPS

 

This unique area is the confluence of the east and west, the north and south; it is bursting with life. Within this empire of grass students will examine the lives of some of the unique animals living at Wind Cave: American bison, elk, pronghorn, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets to name a few. Students will investigate how all life, from producers (such as grasses) to consumers (like the bison) then to decomposers (as in dung beetles and fungi) are interconnected in the web of life. Students will assess how human population affects the Great Plains.