NERACOOS Education and Outreach

Ocean observing provides a unique ability to inspire people to learn about the oceans through the immediacy of real-time observations. While most individuals know about the seasons on land especially in the Northeast of the U.S., few comprehend the similar changes in the Sea. By understanding the sea’s seasonal patterns individuals better connect with the ocean. NERACOOS has built a collaboration of ocean science education professionals and scientists by partnering with the many high-caliber ocean education organizations in the region.

These include the three Centers for Ocean Science Education Excellence (COSEE): COSEE – Networked Ocean World (NOW) lead by Rutgers, COSEE – Ocean Systems (OS) lead by the University of Maine, and COSEE – New England (NE) lead by the New England Aquarium. The region's Sea Grant establishments are also part of our collaboration providing a direct conduit to their local communities. By working in partnership we are ensuring that our efforts do not duplicate those of other institutions, and, where appropriate, we are using materials developed elsewhere. We engage teachers and students directly in formal education programs as well as visitors of all ages at informal science centers.

Some of the early work of NERACOOS included an assessment of end user needs in the areas of water quality, harmful algal blooms, coastal inundation, living marine resources, and marine operations. The results of these assessments will help reveal the highest priorities for ocean observing infrastructure. Visit the 'User Needs' section of the website to access information sheets on the user needs assessment process and some examples of how ocean observing serves society.