How
Does Sea Grant Outreach Work?
A network of extension professionals takes Sea Grant scientific
information out of the laboratory and into the field, working
to enhance a coastal business, a fishery, or residents’
safety and quality of life. A dedicated corps of communications
specialists builds public understanding of these issues
for informed decision-making. Sea Grant educators bring
the discoveries into the nation’s schools, using them
to pioneer better ways of teaching and helping to foster
a new generation of scientifically literate Americans. |
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Extension
Extension agents provide outreach and technology transfer
for Sea Grant. Working in partnership with Sea Grant communicators
and educators in every coastal and Great Lakes state, plus
Puerto Rico, extension agents link university resources
and expertise with local communities and user groups. In
short, these specialists take complex information and show
people how to use it to solve problems. An agent might develop
new information through original applied research, gather
existing information for user needs, transmit information
and skills through pamphlets, courses, workshops, lectures
and meetings; provide technical reviews of research and
policies; and stimulate new research to meet perceived needs.
Extension agents are focused on specific topics such as
improving fisheries management, developing sustainable aquaculture,
decreasing water pollution, restoring habitat and identifying
standards for establishing marine reserves. |
Communications
Through websites, publications,
electronic communications, media
relations, radio shows, videos, community interaction
and cooperative efforts with extension agents and other
program components, Sea Grant communicators keep the public
informed about current research and technology in marine
science and promote the understanding of marine issues among
industry, educators and marine resource users.
Education
Education at all levels is a cornerstone of Sea Grant and
includes undergraduate and graduate education, teacher education,
K-12 curriculum development, fellowships
, informal education for the general public, special training
programs for industry and much more. Sea Grant educators
provide valuable leadership in marine and aquatic science
education activities throughout the nation. |
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