Exploring the deep with teachers: using teacher input to drive education and outreach plans

Summary form only given. Working within the spirit of COSEE, the NSF Ridge 2000 program and NOAA´s Office of Ocean Exploration conducted a 3-day teacher workshop to identify ways to use the uniqueness of deep-sea research and the excitement of new discoveries to enhance science education throughout our nation. The primary intent of the workshop was to seek expert opinion on how best to meet the needs of students in today´s science classroom. Twenty-six experienced educators participated, sharing their thoughts on existing models of ocean science classroom programs and discussing ways for deep-sea scientists to best work with the education community. Focus groups discussed questions relating to inquiry-oriented curriculum and standards, teacher professional development, and how to bring real science into the classroom and involve a majority of students. This paper will focus on recommendations and insights from the workshop and will highlight directions the Ridge2000 program is taking to provide effective education outreach.