Exploring Inner Space: Engaging the Public With Ocean Scientists

Abstract

AbstractA prototype telepresence communications system was designed, piloted, and tested for use in informal science education institutions to provide public, student, and educator interactions with scientists aboard ships and in the University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography (GSO) Inner Space Center (ISC). In addition to providing opportunities for the engagement of scientists with diverse audiences, a goal of this initiative was to promote an appreciation and understanding of the ocean, while exposing aquarium visitors to advanced telepresence communication technologies. The project partnership was comprised of a leading ocean science research and education institution (the GSO); two national ocean science education networks—the National Centers for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence Network and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Office of Exploration and Research Education Alliance; and two partner aquariums—Mystic Aquarium and South Carolina Aquarium. The main outcomes of the project were as follows: (1) a partnership of ocean science research and informal science education professionals that linked ocean scientists and informal science institution staff and visitors; (2) a state-of-the-art hardware and software system for partner aquariums capable of delivering live and prerecorded ocean exploration experiences to visitors; (3) professional development for informal science educators focused on educating the public and improving ocean literacy; (4) a useful and effective digital media interface and software for communicating and interacting with the ocean science content; and (5) an understanding of how live and prerecorded ocean exploration experiences affect aquarium visitor ocean literacy.