Speed Presentation 2024 Australian Marine Sciences Association Annual Meeting combined with NZMSS

Empowering Australia's ocean literacy: from marine education to community engagement and beyond. (#217)

Cátia Freitas 1 , Madi O'Brien 1 , Alecia Bellgrove 2 , Paul Venzo 3 , Prue Francis 1
  1. Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, Queenscliff
  2. Deakin Marine Research and Innovation Centre, Warrnambool
  3. School of Communication & Creative Arts, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds

Australia’s ocean literacy landscape is characterized by a diverse range of initiatives and programs aimed at enhancing understanding and stewardship of marine environments. As the next generation faces unprecedented environmental challenges, it’s imperative that they develop a strong understanding of the oceans’ crucial role in shaping the planet’s climate, biodiversity, and ecosystems. Despite this, the Australian curriculum often lacks comprehensive ocean education opportunities, presenting a gap in marine science knowledge among students. This presentation will summarize marine education research we have been undertaking within the Australian context and discuss how programs developed in the education sector can be disseminated throughout communities, fostering a culture of stewardship and conservation for Australia’s marine environments.