The Prep Course: an Invaluable Asset Before the Fieldwork

As we make our way to campus in the New Jersey dreary winter, we can’t help but get excited. We are prepping for an amazing trip to the Florida Keys! This trip is a way for students in the Marine Science or Biology programs to apply classroom knowledge they’ve obtained throughout their career at Stockton University to actual fieldwork in a biologically diverse environment.

It may sound like a vacation, and although it will be paradise, there is a lot of work to be done! By taking this “Prep” class, students are utilizing an invaluable asset before they head out into the mangroves, white sandy beaches, and pristine coral reef systems.

First, there’s a lot of paperwork that goes into planning an excursion of this magnitude. Students need to be aware of not only the physical requirements for diving, hiking, and snorkeling, but also the financial aspect that goes along with these exciting adventures. Emergency contact information, a list of personal health limitations and doctors to contact in the event of an issue must be provided.

This may sound boring, but no one would have fun if a classmate couldn’t get the proper medical attention they needed. By signing a financial agreement for the trip, it ensures the flights can be booked, the dive boats scheduled, and the day-to-day activities planned, without fear of students backing out.

Once the paperwork is complete, choosing the date of field study is important. 

With outside employment and family obligations, many students have to schedule these events carefully. Some participants may even need to brush up on diving skills or complete that Open Water Certification just before we leave. Timing is everything.

Now that the planning of the trip is well underway, the real “Prep” regarding scientific research begins. Students will not only learn how to identify certain species of fish, coral, invertebrates and seaweeds; they’ll be utilizing that knowledge to keep a field notebook, create blog entries, and review journal articles. Each of these assignments taps into a different aspect of the environment and helps to employ both creativity and critical thinking skills.

By having those few months to prepare, students are better equipped to take on the challenges of fieldwork. 

Once in Florida, they can sit back, dive in, and take in the gorgeous scenery while feeling confident in the skills they’ve honed in the classroom.

Have you ever had such an informative or fun class?

Want to have an exciting and rewarding summer break? Find out more information about Stockton University’s available summer courses at www.stockton.edu

You too can participate in Florida Key research! 

Check out www.fla-keys.com/volunteer for opportunities counting fish species and rebuilding coral communities.