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Creating an Ocean Literate Society:

The Academic Community’s Role

Dick WestPresident and CEO

June 7, 2006

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An Ocean Blueprint

for the 21st

Century

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Enhance Ocean Education

Cultivate a broad public stewardship ethic.

Improve decision makers’ understanding of the ocean.

Prepare a new generation of leaders on ocean issues.

Ocean Commission Recommends:

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Public Stewardship

Oceans are NOT just a coastal issue… they affect everyone’s lives

Yet Americans lack basic knowledge of the oceans… – Only 25% of Americans can find the Gulf of Mexico or

the Pacific Ocean on a map.

– 21% know that oceans produce more of the earth’s oxygen than forests.

– 45% agree with the statement that “What I do in my life doesn’t impact ocean health much at all.”

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Decision Makers’ Understanding

Education Budget

FY 2005(Enacted)

FY 2006(Enacted)

FY 2007(Requested)

NASA $217 $272 $153

NOAA $35 $34 $19

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Next Generation of LeadersCOSEE Network: 10 Centers and 1 Central Coordinating Office @ CORE

20 CORE institutions in COSEE

Ocean literacy contributions:•Endorsement of the Ocean Literacy Principles

•New links between scientists and educators

•Professional development for teachers & scientists

•Community outreach

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National Ocean Sciences Bowl

• Multi-agency effort coordinated by CORE• Approaching 9th year, 25 sites, 400 high schools, 2000

students • Emphasis on marine science knowledge, ocean literacy

and critical thinking skills• Content correlated with National Science Education

Standards• Expanding reach to diverse populations around the

country• Internship and scholarship opportunities for NOSB

students• Professional development opportunities for NOSB

teachers/coaches and regional coordinators

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Ocean Education Actions

Infuse “Oceans” into our classrooms

Increase public awareness

Translate ocean research/discovery

Federal leadership required

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Pollution: Keep America Beautiful -- Iron Eyes Cody

(1961 - 1983)

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The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.  

Jacques-Yves Cousteau