Workforce Development
Solar energy, wind power, and biofuels have become familiar concepts to the American public. In contrast, marine energy is newer and relatively unknown. Because the potential exists for a robust industry to develop in the U.S. and Florida associated with commercial-scale deployments of open-ocean generating systems and OTEC plants, it is important for the public to develop a better understanding of marine energy resources. To that end, SNMREC has undertaken a broad program of public education and outreach.
Marine renewable energy presents a marvelous opportunity for teachers to engage their students in a new, exciting topic that offers a hidden benefit: in learning about how the oceans can act as a renewable energy source for the future, students are exposed to various topics in the fundamentals of physics and the earth sciences.
Because there will be the need for a substantial workforce, should the marine renewable energy industry take root in southeast Florida, educating new generations of students on the topic is an important jump on the future. SNMREC’s curriculum development activities are providing a start toward this future.
A SNMREC High School Science Curriculum was developed to enhance interest in: science, mathematics, engineering and technology (STEM), and to support improvements in education for students from K-12 with original curriculum and teacher workshops. Energy from Ocean Currents: The New Renewable is a curriculum developed for secondary students, funded by the US Department of Energy, and was developed specifically for 11th and 12th grade students. The curriculum was established based upon 5 E's, an instructional teaching model using the constructivist approach that fosters inquiry-based thinking.
The 5 E's:
- Engaging the Learner
- Exploring the Concept
- Explaining the Concept
- Elaborating the Concept
- Evaluating the Learner
There are six comprehensive lessons built around scientific facts relating to SNMREC's research and aligned with Florida Sunshine State Standards benchmarks, with hands-on activities reinforcing each lesson. The curriculum has been introduced to more than 200 teachers from five counties in South Florida (Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie) in eight workshops in the first year (2010-11). Teachers who participated in the pilot workshop implemented the curriculum with their classes and gave valuable feedback. They also participated in the second and third workshops as facilitators. Each teacher received in-service credits from their school district.
Current initiatives include development of new curriculum materials, hands-on activities at various regional public events and museums, and expert presentations. SNMREC recognizes that investing in a future workforce for the marine energy industry requires early planning. Several initiatives are under way to establish a pipeline of qualified professionals.