Moreton Bay EEC staff joined educators from across Queensland at the Marine Teachers Association of Queensland (MTAQ) Conference with locations at Sea World and the Jacobs Well EEC. The theme "Our Changing Ocean" explored marine environments from local to global scales and highlighted innovative ways to connect students with real-world science and environmental issues.
At Sea World, educators took part in hands-on experiences including water quality testing in Shark Bay, visits to the Turtle Pools and Quarantine Facility, exploring the Sea Jellies Facility, and getting up close with the rays at Ray Reef. Keynote speaker Kris Frid challenged attendees to consider what changes in marine ecosystems mean for our future and what science is telling us about these transformations. Marine ecologist Eduardo Kleinsalas showcased how real-time ocean observation data, including information gathered from sensors attached to marine animals, can be accessed through the Australian Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) and used to bring authentic scientific investigation into the classroom.
At Jacobs Well Environmental Education Centre, the conference also provided updates on the QCAA Aquatic Practices and Marine Science curriculum, opportunities for introducing cutting-edge technologies such as portable scanning electron microscopes into the classroom and new approaches to building ocean literacy.
The conference concluded with a boat trip to South Stradbroke Island for an exploration of the mangroves and saltmarsh areas with UQ researcher Valerie Kwan and examination of marine communities found on autonomous reef monitoring structures (ARMS).
Professional learning opportunities like these help ensure our programs remain current, engaging and relevant, as well as time together as a team. We're excited to bring new ideas, experiences and opportunities back to our students as they continue exploring and protecting our fascinating marine environments.