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.
