The National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB®): More Than Just A Competition

From its inauguration in 1998, the National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSBreg) has provided an educational forum for students to excel in math and science and to receive national recognition for their talents. With a current framework of 25 regional competition sites and over 14,000 student contacts since inception, the program has a proven track record for generating student interest and excitement about science and the oceans and offers young people an exceptional opportunity to explore marine science, both as an in-depth area of study and as a possible career path. Enhancements over the years have expanded NOSB from simply a seasonal academic competition into a complex learning community. Several initiatives have expanded the program´s horizons and have provided opportunities for further intellectual and personal growth for students, coaches and regional coordinators. NOSB has also focused on expanding outreach to diverse audiences. Details of these enhancements will be described along with results of a recent study of the impact of NOSB on students, coaches, regional coordinators and volunteers