A journey of marine discovery!
Marine debris is known to affect more than 270 species of marine animals worldwide, from the top predators in the food chain to plankton, but the full extent of the impact is unknown.
TeachWild aims to tackles this global issue in the form of a three-year marine debris research and education program by bringing scientists together with teachers, students and employees to carry out hands-on field work .
The programs aim is to survey and map the distribution of marine debris, identify the major sources of debris and measure the impacts of debris on Australian wildlife. The data will contribute to a national marine debris database to assist state governments and coastal councils in formulating waste management policies and practices intended to protect marine ecosystems.
This will be carried out in the form of three key areas:
Science teachers
TeachWild aims to encourage, motivate and reward innovation in curriculum delivery by teachers, and develop the capacity and networks of regional and remote teachers and inspire those involved in the program to become environmental champions.
Science teachers have the opportunity to apply to take part in a funded week-long land and sea based expedition with the TeachWild science team. Various research activities are carried out throughout the week. In both land and sea based expeditions, teachers can interact with students online by posting photos, highlights and discussing topics in the forum. Opportunities are listed under the 7 Day Projects menu at the top of this page.
Schools
TeachWild aims to inspire students to explore their world through science that is relevant to their lives, and encourage, motivate and reward innovation in curriculum delivery by teachers.
Scientists from CSIRO are surveying beaches and birdlife around Australia to better understand the sources and distribution of marine debris and the threat it poses to Australian wildlife.
Our scientists will inspire students from Year 6-10 with engaging fieldwork, learning the basics of data collection and scientific methods. They will conduct a one day field based excursion with your students at a local beach or waterway. Field work includes beach surveys to look for marine debris and marine wildlife affected by debris. By engaging in our program, students will receive an interactive learning experience whilst meeting some of the key learning areas of the Australian Curriculum.
Online
TeachWild online resources provide teachers and students with access to the cutting-edge scientific modelling tools, while contributing to a national marine debris database.
Find out more about this research or how to get involved by visting the TeachWild website.