Journal of Aquaculture Research & Development

Aquaculture immersion to enthuse todayâ??s youth and foster tomorrowâ??s workforce

7^th International Conference on Aquaculture & Fisheries

October 19-21, 2017 | Rome, Italy

Pamela Ernstberger

Pisces Learning Innovations Ltd., UK

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Aquac Res Development

Abstract:

Exploring Diversity in Aquaculture (EDA) is a blended program that is aimed at high school and college students to stimulate interest and inspire students in the science of aquaculture. Students are given the opportunity to explore the aquaculture industry, in a wider context, through science, society and culture. For students learning English through our EU partners, this will provide an alternative language immersion opportunity, through guided instruction. The delivery of the course content is done through an online hybrid approach and will include a course outline of the modules that have to be completed, lab experiences, travel to include site visits and opportunities to network with professionals in the field and other students taking part in the course, through an aquaculture social-media hub. Thus providing a more innovative, real-life approach to enhance their learning experience. The course has been put together by a professional collaborative team, qualified in course development and design in aquaculture and fisheries sectors, as well as ESL from the UK and overseas including: universities, such as land grant universities in Connecticut, USA further education colleges and extension, non profits and government. As a team, we all have extensive experience in teaching young people, at varying capacities and in different cultural settings. Our main focus is to provide more effective learning strategies for youth engagement in the global aquaculture and fisheries sector. The course is designed to better engage the student and foster a better understanding of what this industry has to offer; it benefits from an established community of practice aimed to support the learner, ultimately creating an interest for further study and career progression in this fast growing industry. The goal is to create a cycle of outreach through education and training for the industry, with their support as well as other interested parties and funding bodies.