Looking for the intersection of education and entertainment? Marine science and museums? Look no further than Mote Marine Laboratory’s new virtual learning program, the “Mote SEA Show”!
Mote’s team of marine science educators is taking learning beyond the classroom, literally, with a new interactive, livestream marine science morning show. This innovative, educational broadcast focuses on illuminating what goes on behind-the-scenes in marine science and research. Connecting with international audiences, “Mote SEA Show” is integrating science education, United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, and Next Generation Science Standards with contemporary research to inspire students from around the world to make a difference in ocean conservation.
Historically, Mote’s virtual learning program, SEAtrek.TV, broadcasts from a television studio located at Mote’s main campus in Sarasota, Florida. Mote educators provide learners from the around the world with standard-aligned, marine science and research-themed lessons, in the style of a virtual field trip. SEAtrek.TV connects with over 17,000 individuals each year, ranging from classrooms to senior homes, as well as live-streaming content through affiliated partnerships with organizations such as Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC). Mote also participates in the Rob and Melani Walton Sustainability in Science and Technology Museums Fellowship, in partnership with NISE Network. With support from NISE Network and the The Rob and Melani Walton Foundation, SEAtrek.TV developed a specialized mobile “studio” to take the show on the road! Thanks to this new technology, SEAtrek.TV has evolved into the “Mote SEA Show”, shedding light on the research of marine scientists through a series of live, morning talk show-style interviews, science experiments, research technology demonstrations, and more!
With goals of developing an appreciation for marine life and the role of accredited zoos, aquariums, and science museums in conservation, learners are able to explore local and global issues and use collaborative technologies to investigate solutions. “Mote SEA Show” is currently offered Tuesday mornings, free of charge, and provides views of live marine habitats and animals, the scientists who work with them, and discussions of ocean conservation and the sustainable use of aquatic resources. Each 30-minute program connects with audiences through Zoom Video Communications, and is later uploaded to SEAtrek.TV’s YouTube channel. SEAtrek.TV plans to launch more virtual learning options in Spring 2020, including field excursions and teacher professional development workshops. For personalized opportunities to bring Mote’s science to your audiences, visit SEAtrek.TV for available lessons, upcoming broadcasting events, and program bookings. Those interested can also visit Mote’s Flipgrid to ask Mote experts marine science questions for free and receive answers in personalized video responses.
To learn more about Mote's SEA Show and other virtual learning program opportunities, contact Ross Johnston, Virtual Learning Education Specialist at [email protected].