1 Creating an Ocean Literate Society: The Academic Community’s Role Dick West President and CEO June 7, 2006

2 An Ocean Blueprint for the 21st Century

3 Enhance Ocean Education  Cultivate a broad public stewardship ethic.  Improve decision makers’ understanding of the ocean.  Prepare a new generation of leaders on ocean issues. Ocean Commission Recommends:

4 Public Stewardship Oceans are NOT just a coastal issue… they affect everyone’s lives Yet Americans lack basic knowledge of the oceans… –Only 25% of Americans can find the Gulf of Mexico or the Pacific Ocean on a map. –21% know that oceans produce more of the earth’s oxygen than forests. –45% agree with the statement that “What I do in my life doesn’t impact ocean health much at all.”

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6 Decision Makers’ Understanding Education Budget FY 2005 (Enacted) FY 2006 (Enacted) FY 2007 (Requested) NASA$217$272$153 NOAA$35$34$19

7 Next Generation of Leaders COSEE Network: 10 Centers and 1 Central Coordinating CORE 20 CORE institutions in COSEE Ocean literacy contributions: Endorsement of the Ocean Literacy Principles New links between scientists and educators Professional development for teachers & scientists Community outreach

8 National Ocean Sciences Bowl Multi-agency effort coordinated by CORE Approaching 9th year, 25 sites, 400 high schools, 2000 students Emphasis on marine science knowledge, ocean literacy and critical thinking skills Content correlated with National Science Education Standards Expanding reach to diverse populations around the country Internship and scholarship opportunities for NOSB students Professional development opportunities for NOSB teachers/coaches and regional coordinators

10 Ocean Education Actions  Infuse “Oceans” into our classrooms  Increase public awareness  Translate ocean research/discovery  Federal leadership required

11 Pollution: Keep America Beautiful -- Iron Eyes Cody ( )

12 The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever. Jacques-Yves Cousteau