The Marine Literacy Project is a holistic educational approach that views the sea not merely as an area to be observed from afar, but as a living ecosystem that must be learned from, experienced, and protected. In line with this approach, the Sea Expeditions conducted within the scope of the project have created an important practical area that allows students to have direct contact with the sea.
Within this scope, underwater observation studies focusing on seagrasses and fish species were conducted on the STS Bodrum School Ship with students from Milas Kısırlar Secondary School and TED Bodrum College. The trainings were carried out within a safe and scientifically based program, accompanied by diving instructors Ecrin Burgazlı and Mert Gökalp.
Direct Contact with the Sea, Lasting Learning.
During sea voyages, students had the opportunity to learn about the marine environment not only through theoretical knowledge but also through on-site observation and experience. By touching seagrasses, they observed firsthand the role of these habitats within the ecosystem and their importance for marine life. At the same time, by identifying different fish species, they learned about the concept of biodiversity through concrete examples.
The training also covered the topic of invasive species; students were informed about the effects of these species on the ecosystem, their relationships with native species, and the risks they pose to marine balance. In this way, children and young people were encouraged to develop conservation awareness by recognizing the threats facing the sea at an early age.
A Project Strengthened by Scientific Collaborations
Sea Expeditions were implemented through a multi-stakeholder collaboration model. Practical training sessions were conducted with the support of the Institut Français de Turquie, in collaboration with the Bodrum METU Alumni Association and Ekomiras Akdeniz, while Muğla Metropolitan Municipality provided logistical support to the project. These collaborations made it possible to transfer scientific knowledge to the field and reach children.
A Path to Marine Literacy
The Marine Literacy Project – Sea Expeditions aims to strengthen marine literacy by supporting students in their processes of getting to know, understand, and love the sea. These activities, which combine knowledge and experience, deepen children's connection with the sea, preparing them to become conscious individuals of the future.
The trainings and field studies conducted within the scope of the project are continuing to increase with the aim of raising awareness about the protection of marine ecosystems and promoting a culture of living in harmony with the sea.
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