02 Apr 2007
Practical learning at sea
Learning by doing is the philosophy behind a new marine experience programme 16 lucky Botany Downs Secondary School students experienced recently.
The group was among students from five Auckland and Coromandel schools selected for the Sea and Learn programme run by the Sir Peter Blake Trust and the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA).
The group spent the day in the Motuihe and Rakino channels, and near Waiheke Island, on the research vessel Kaharoa learning first hand about the human impact on the region's marine environment.
Pupils participated in a range of experiments and investigations including water sampling and fish trawling as well as observing the ship's technology.
"What's great about this programme is that the students get to see things, ask questions and discuss the possible answers right on the spot," trust executive director Dr Mark Orams says. "There was also a lot if 'what is that?' moments which is always fun."
The programme also involved sampling the sea floor and looking at the interrelationships of the thousands of unique organisms which have been discovered so far in New Zealand waters.
Dr Orams hopes the programme inspires the next generation of marine environmental crusaders or students to consider a career in the sciences.
Head of Science at BDSC, Emma Davies says the 16 senior students who participated in the programme enjoyed the chance to conduct some "real science".
"The hands-on learning aspect of day was a stand out success. All the pupils enjoyed the opportunity to take a close look at organisms they do not normally come into contact with," she said. "They have been keen to pass on their experience to the classmates who did not attend - the experience was definitely a worthwhile addition to our curriculum."
Dr Orams says NIWA's support of the project enabled 170 students to take part in this cycle of the programme.
The trust hopes to extend the programme next year it has schedule programmes for thelower North Island and the South Island.
Howick and Botany Times
14/03/07
