Centers and Large Facilities - Education and Outreach

Project Name: Ridge 2000 Program

Location: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, 278A Clark South, MS #24, Woods Hole, MA 02543

Contact information: Liz Goehring, exg15@psu.edu, 814-863-6603

Website:  www.ridge2000.org/science/outreach/index.php

Main Project description/purpose

Ridge 2000, an NSF-sponsored program, is an interdisciplinary initiative to study Earth’s oceanic spreading ridge system as an integrated whole, from its inception in the mantle to its manifestations in the biosphere and water column.  Ridge 2000 also supports education and public outreach for diverse audiences in support of Earth sciences education and awareness.

Education and Outreach Mission and Goals

The mission of the Ridge 2000 Education and Outreach Program is to support effective science education and literacy for multiple audiences through the development of programs and products that feature the excitement of mid-ocean ridge research in the deep sea.  This commitment includes supporting effective K-12 science education for students and teachers in the classroom environment, and promoting science literacy among citizens of all ages through meaningful informal education experiences.
Goals of Ridge 2000 Education and Outreach

• Develop educational products/approaches that will engage students in the process of scientific inquiry and encourage positive attitudes about science
• Assist teachers, educators, and school administratorsin using educational products with their students
• Develop programs and products for visitors of institutions and centers of informal science learning (aquaria, science centers, museums)
• Develop products and resources that serve the public through electronic media
• Assist program scientists in contributing meaningfully to science education and public outreach, while using their time and resources efficiently
• Foster the inclusion of traditionally underrepresented audiences in ocean science education experiences
• Encourage young citizens to pursue careers in the ocean sciences

Primary Audience(s) served (i.e., high school teachers, college students, etc.)

K-12 science students and educators, undergraduate and graduate students, informal learners (family and public programs)