Arctic guide’s mindset: enhancing safety competence development from the perspective of instructors

This study examined the importance of safety knowledge and competencies for adventure guides leading Arctic trips. Given the challenging environment, remoteness, and limited resources, guides must have skills to prevent and respond to accidents. The research critically assessed Arctic adventure guide training programs in Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland by interviewing six instructors to explore how curricula develop safety competency. Despite their importance, little research addresses adventure guide education. The study investigated how curriculum design and facilitation influence training in safety competencies and risk management. Findings showed effective facilitation requires engagement with Arctic realities, clear mutual understanding of the guide’s role, and awareness of cultural differences in risk perception among guides. The research also identified curricular gaps and recommended future studies prioritize knowledge sharing, incorporate diverse perspectives, and integrate Indigenous knowledge to strengthen guide competency development across the Arctic. Implementation should emphasize practical training, community engagement, continuous evaluation, and ongoing collaboration.