Ocean science concept mapping: what do people need to know about ocean sciences

While attempting to infuse more ocean science research into K-16 classrooms, museums and aquaria, the New England Regional Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence (NER-COSEE) is focused on identifying excellent examples of ocean science education. However, without a "map" of ocean sciences, it is difficult or impossible to meet the needs of both the research and education communities. Therefore, we are using a combination of surveys, small working groups, concept mapping strategies, and collaboration across the ocean science community to produce a simplified web of age appropriate ocean science concepts along with excellent examples of how to teach these concepts.