Training and technical assistance in marine science—A viable transfer product

Abstract

Abstract Marine science is presented as a possible transfer product for training and technical assistance programs with developing countries. In order to develop this point we present the major research interests, techniques, and instruments of the various branches of marine science and show how some could be used in a transfer program. In order to ascertain past experience and present interest in cooperative projects with foreign scientists we sent a questionnaire to over one hundred United States marine scientists. The U.S. scientists showed a high level of interest in cooperative marine science programs and over two‐thirds had participated in some type of international marine science program, many of which involved marine technical assistance. The respondents suggested many problem areas in such programs, particularly inadequate funding, variations in scientific background among participants, cultural and language problems, and government bureaucracy. The experiences and criticisms of some marine scientists from developing countries are also reviewed and compared with the views of U.S. scientists. The foreign scientists noted as problems insufficient opportunity to participate in the planning of the programs, inadequate length of programs, and difficulties with funding and government support. We suggest several mechanisms to expand and improve the effectiveness of educational and technical assistance programs in the marine sciences with developing countries. Based on our study we feel that there is considerable interest among U.S. marine scientists in having training and technical assistance marine science programs with foreign countries. Further developments await funding and leadership.