Teachers to Study Coastal, Ocean-Related Topics at Summer Institute

Fifteen teachers from across the province will have the opportunity to learn more about coastal and ocean-related matters this summer by participating in Our Water, Our World, a three-day teacher institute taking place at Terra Nova National Park from August 14 to16.

“The Provincial Government recognizes the importance of providing our teachers with professional development experiences that contribute to their own ongoing learning process,” said the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education. “Through Our Water, Our World, participating teachers will work directly with scientists and other marine professionals, exploring issues around the sustainability of our ocean resources, and allowing them to share their new-found knowledge with students come September.”

The Provincial Government is providing $15,000 to enable the teachers to take part in the program, which is being offered in partnership with Coastal Connections, a marine eco-tour company which also operates educational programs from the Visitor Centre at Salton’s Brook in Terra Nova National Park.

The program includes a combination of classroom and hands-on activities. Teachers will learn to navigate the research boat, deploy scientific sampling equipment, work with fishing gear, collect data, conduct lab work and explore ways to teach ocean-related subject matter in innovative ways.

Minister Jackman said that in addition to addressing science curriculum outcomes at various grade levels, the program also speaks to aspects of Social Studies, Newfoundland and Labrador Studies, and Career Development courses.

“The focus this year is on the coastal and ocean ecosystem – its diversity, habitats, basic ecology, and the inshore fishery, and how we can use the resources available to us while being cognizant of stewardship and sustainability,” said Minister Jackman. “Not only are these valuable lessons that enhance our curriculum, these experiences allow teachers to increase their knowledge and understanding of the wide range of ocean-related careers available to students.”

Budget 2012: People and Prosperity provides $9 million for teacher professional development, which represents a 96 per cent increase since 2004.

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Media contact:
Heather May
Director of Communications
Department of Education
709-729-0048, 697-5061
heathermay@gov.nl.ca 

2012 06 20             12:15 p.m.