Project

Virtual Reality and Field Trips for Ocean Literacy

Full Title: Leveraging Virtual Reality and Electronic Field Trips to Increase Florida Youths’ Ocean Literacy
The project utilized virtual reality and electronic field trips to enhance ocean literacy among Florida’s youth, focusing on living shorelines and environmental science. It successfully increased students’ connection to water and conservation behavior intentions through immersive educational experiences.
Lead Investigator: Dr. Jamie Loizzo, University of Florida, [email protected]
Project Team: • Dr. Savanna Barry, UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station • Dr. Mark Clark, University of Florida • Dr. Micheal Allen, UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station • Dr. Laura Warner, University of Florida
Collaborator: IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station
Award Amount: $10,000
Year Funded: 2020
Award Period: 10/5/20 -8/31/21
Project Abstract:

This project was designed to address the critical need for engaging educational methods to improve ocean literacy among middle and high school students in Florida. Recognizing the constraints of traditional field trips, the project utilized VR and EFTs to provide immersive learning experiences about the Cedar Key living shorelines and related environmental science topics. It involved interdisciplinary collaboration to develop educational content aligned with state and national science standards, focusing on human impacts, water ecosystems, biodiversity, and climate change. The project successfully increased students’ connection to water and conservation intentions, demonstrating the effectiveness of innovative educational technologies in enhancing environmental literacy.

More To Explore

The project focuses on understanding the dynamics of coral reef fish assemblages in South Florida by developing a spatially explicit model that incorporates recreational fisher behavior. This model will help in examining the impacts of different management scenarios on the fishery ecosystem.
This project focuses on restoring oyster habitats in Apalachicola Bay to promote sustainable oyster populations and fisheries. It integrates community involvement and scientific research to enhance restoration techniques and management practices.
This project develops smartphone-enabled qPCR technology to enhance the detection and monitoring of harmful algal blooms in the Gulf of Mexico. By integrating this technology into citizen science programs, it aims to improve data accuracy and timeliness, contributing to better management and mitigation of red tide impacts.