Education and Outreach Applications of Ocean Observing Data

Date/Time:

15 Mar 2012
12:05-12:30

Location:

South Galleries

Ms Liesl Hotaling, University of South Florida

Seminar Details
Global ocean observing systems collect and disseminate data on coastal, regional and global scales. These data sets and new knowledge aids our understanding of physical, biological, chemical and geological processes in the ocean. Greater knowledge of the ocean's interrelated systems is vital for increased understanding of their effects of biodiversity, climate change, ocean and coastal ecosystems, environmental health and climate. The integration of real world data from ocean observatories into educational opportunities is a proven mechanism to increase student interest and understanding of these concepts. Data-enhanced learning experiences can prepare and empower students to address real-world complex problems; develop learners' abilities to use scientific methods, including consideration of the values and ethics of working with data; teach students how to critically evaluate the integrity and robustness of data or evidence and of their consequent interpretations or conclusions; and provide training in scientific, technical, quantitative, and communication skills. Successful data-enhanced learning experiences are critically dependent on the sources of reliable data being accessible by non-expert audiences. Teacher professional development opportunities have been shown to expand the use of these educational materials and data in classrooms. However, more research and development is needed to analyze the effectiveness of data display and visualization in facilitating the understanding by non-expert audiences in education settings. This presentation will address broad view applications of ocean observing data in education and outreach settings and key considerations in making data accessible to non-expert audiences. Examples presented will describe data use in graduate, undergraduate and K-12 classrooms, informal education settings such as aquaria, science centers and citizen science programs, and coastal management applications.