Teachers Provided Opportunity to Study Ocean-Related Topics

For the third consecutive year, teachers from across the province will have the opportunity to learn more about coastal and ocean-related matters by participating in Our Water, Our World, a three-day teacher institute taking place at Terra Nova National Park from August 13 to 15.

“We are pleased to support this program, providing our teachers with experiences that contribute to their own ongoing learning process,” said the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education. “Through Our Water, Our World, teachers will have an authentic experience with scientific research methods to bring back to their classrooms in the upcoming school year. These experiences focus on coastal and ocean ecosystems – with its diversity, environment, ecology and inshore fishery – and learning the key aspects of sustaining our marine eco-system. It also gives teachers a better understanding of what ocean-related careers are available for students.”

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, which includes a combination of classroom and hands-on activities, will give teachers an opportunity to 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. 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.

Budget 2013: A Sound Plan, A Secure Future provides more than $8 million for teacher professional development and learning.

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

2013 07 11             11:30 a.m.