Fostering ocean literacy through informal marine education programs

Despite general interest in the concept, there is a lack of formal education systems that foster ocean literacy. Informal marine education programs may be filling this gap; where students undertake unique, immersive learning experiences connected to the marine environment. This paper consolidates information about marine education programs within Australia's temperate region - the Great Southern Reef - and evaluates the extent to which ocean literacy is being delivered through these programs under the banner of Australia's national curriculum. Using the mixed methods approach of a survey and semi-structured interviews, we found that participants are familiar with ocean literacy principles (89.4 %), and half of the informal providers (51 %) reported incorporating these principles into their education programs. We discuss the barriers to teaching and learning about ocean concepts reported by respondents, and argue that formal and informal education programs, working in tandem, can improve school curricula and promote greater ocean literacy.

Automated summary

Despite a lack of formal education systems fostering ocean literacy, informal marine education programs are filling the gap, offering immersive learning experiences connected to the marine environment. This study examines marine education programs in Australia's temperate region and evaluates their adherence to ocean literacy principles outlined in the national curriculum. Findings indicate a strong familiarity with ocean literacy principles among participants, with half of the informal providers incorporating these principles into their programs. The study highlights the importance of formal and informal education programs working together to improve school curricula and promote ocean literacy.