Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant | University of Illinois

Great lakes and Ocean literacy

Populations and built environments in coastal watersheds are growing rapidly, with 55 percent of the U.S. population already living within 50 miles of the coast. To become well-informed decision makers, it is important that youth understand the importance of balancing natural resource protection with sustainable economic growth. Sea Grant education efforts are directed toward students and educators, grades K-16, and to graduate level students through our fellowship programs. It is our goal to create an informed citizenry that understands the value and vulnerability of our Great Lakes and marine resources. We offer programs and products that build awareness, knowledge, and skills, which leads to new attitudes that will increase one’s ability to engage in personal and collective action.

News

Education Initiatives

COSEE Great Lakes
An NSF project that offers professional development programs, materials, activities, and experiences for educators, while connecting with scientists as they study the Great Lakes. The project also gives scientists the opportunity to engage in educational outreach to achieve broad impact.

Invasive Species University Service-Learning Course
This service-learning course uses the Nab the Aquatic Invader website to teach essential science concepts such as ecosystems, habitats, and food webs to undergraduates who then instruct local youth and engage them in community stewardship projects.

Teacher Workshops and Conferences
IISG educators present sessions on Great Lakes literacy at major education meeting s in the two states including the Illinois Science Teachers Association (ISTA) and Hoosier Association of Science Teachers, Inc. (HASTI).