Teach What You Know! NOAA Scientists Use Cutting-Edge Research to Inspire Teachers and Students

NOAA’s Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NWFSC) conducts scientific research that supports the management and conservation of marine resources.  In 2007, Congress passed the America COMPETES Act which broadly mandates NOAA to educate the public about ocean, coastal, Great Lakes, and atmospheric science and stewardship.  NWFSC scientists are encouraged to participate in education and outreach activities and they’ve been stepping up to the challenge by finding creative and engaging ways to share their research with members of the community. By focusing on what they know best, research scientists can play a unique and important role in inspiring future scientists and helping create awareness about pressing marine and aquatic resource issues.  This presentation will describe a few successful projects in which NOAA scientists use their own research interests and expertise to support science education in local schools, universities or informal venues. We will also discuss how partnerships with local organizations are improving the quality of our educational programs and helping NWFSC scientists connect with audiences that we might not otherwise encounter.