HR: 1340h
AN: ED13C-0614
TI: Downhill Connections: How Does Development Impact Southeastern Watersheds? COSEE-SE Professional Development Opportunity Links Scientists with Educators
AU: * Vernon, E
EM: elizabeth.vernon@scseagrant.org
AF: South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium, 287 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
AB: The patchwork design of meandering tidal creeks is a defining characteristic of the Southeastern coastline. The estuarine ecosystems that these creeks eventually flow into are revered for high biological productivity, ecological and economical value. Because of their intrinsic value, these areas are often preferred sites for human development which can be evidenced from the earliest coastal Native American settlement, the rice culture of the colonial south, and present day industrial and residential areas. In June 2008, the Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence – SouthEast (COSEE-SE) conducted a week-long teacher professional development workshop using tidal creeks and estuaries as environmental teaching platforms to emphasize the interconnectedness of watersheds and impacts to their overall health. Formal and informal educators from North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia interacted with local marine scientists to understand associated developmental impacts to water quality parameters, the health of resident and indicator species, and the introduction of non-native species. Educators were engaged with scientists in a variety of field experiences, laboratory exercises and lectures. Relevant classroom applications complemented the scientific information, facilitating the transition of information to students. This workshop is part of the Coastal Legacy series which occurs each summer and fosters relationships between the local science and education communities within a cultural context.
DE: 0830 Teacher training
SC: Education and Human Resources [ED]
MN: 2008 Fall Meeting