Ocean First Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to marine conservation and education. Our mission focuses on creating a healthy, sustainable ocean through science, outreach, and education. The institute achieves this by engaging the community in marine science and conservation efforts, particularly through research, educational programs, and partnerships.
Key elements of Ocean First Institute include:
Research: Conducting and supporting scientific research to better understand marine ecosystems and the impacts of human activities on them. Their research aims to inform conservation strategies and promote the health of the oceans.
Education: Providing educational programs for all age groups to increase awareness and understanding of marine environments. These programs include workshops, school visits, and online resources designed to inspire and educate the next generation of ocean stewards.
Community Engagement: Involving local and global communities in conservation efforts through citizen science projects, public talks, and events. The institute emphasizes the importance of individual actions in contributing to the larger goal of ocean conservation.
Conservation Initiatives: Implementing and supporting initiatives that directly contribute to the protection and restoration of marine habitats. These initiatives often involve collaborations with other organizations, researchers, and policymakers.
Overall, Ocean First Institute aims to bridge the gap between science and the public, fostering a connection between people and the ocean to inspire lasting positive change for marine environments.
Florida Keys Shark Lab & Florida Atlantic University
Ocean First Institute’s research station in Key Largo was established to launch our research and education programs in the Florida Keys. OFI maintains a laboratory and vessel on site that enable our team to conduct research primarily on Sharks and Goliath Grouper.
Our researchers investigate pollutants in local waterways, such as chemicals and microplastics. Our pollution studies utilize our own Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectrometer, which identifies pollutants and ultimately, sources of pollution.
Our lab is home to numerous educational programs. Our Field Course offers undergraduate and senior high school students the opportunity to gain experience alongside top marine biologists and graduate students. From our base in the Keys we also partner with schools throughout Florida and provide both digital and hands-on research opportunities that lead to ocean literacy and appreciation of the marine environment.
Ocean First Institute has graduate students in FAU’s department of Biological Sciences working on projects in the Florida Keyes. We have a partnership with FAU’s Henderson School consisting of a laboratory space where we run our plastic pollution program with students.
Ocean First Institute’s education programs are designed to inspire and educate individuals of all ages about marine science and conservation. Their educational efforts are comprehensive and aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the ocean, encouraging stewardship and informed action to protect marine environments. Here are the key components of their educational initiatives:
Classroom Programs:
- In-School and After-School Programs: These are tailored for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. They focus on a wide range of marine science topics and provide hands-on learning experiences.
- Curriculum Development: The institute collaborates with educators to create curriculum-aligned content that brings marine science into the classroom.
Workshops and Camps:
- Workshops: These sessions provide immersive, hands-on experiences in marine science and conservation. They are designed to engage participants in active learning through experiments, observations, and activities.
- Summer Camps: These camps offer intensive learning experiences focused on marine biology and conservation, providing opportunities for in-depth exploration and field studies.
Outreach Programs:
- Public Talks and Presentations: The institute hosts and participates in public speaking events to share knowledge about marine science and conservation with broader audiences.
- Community Events: Engaging the community through events that promote ocean awareness and conservation efforts.
Online Learning:
- Virtual Classrooms and Webinars: Offering remote learning opportunities through virtual classes and webinars that cover various marine science topics.
- Educational Resources: Providing a range of online materials, including videos, articles, and activity guides to support learning at home or in the classroom.
Professional Development:
- Teacher Training: Offering professional development workshops and resources for educators to enhance their knowledge and teaching skills in marine science.
- Collaboration with Schools: Working directly with schools to integrate marine science into their curriculum and provide support for educators.
Citizen Science Projects:
- Engagement in Research: Involving the community in scientific research projects, allowing participants to contribute to real-world marine science studies.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Teaching participants how to collect and analyze data, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific processes and the importance of research in conservation.
Through these educational programs, Ocean First Institute aims to create informed and passionate ocean stewards who are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to make positive contributions to marine conservation efforts.
