Thank you for your interest in OCEARCH’s Virtual STEM Camps! This unique online experience connects students with real-world ocean science, conservation, and the incredible work of our collaborating researchers. Register now to reserve your spot in our 2025 Virtual STEM Camps. Space is limited, and spots fill quickly.
CAMP CURRICULUM
OCEAN CLUES: WHAT STRANDED MARINE ANIMALS TEACH US
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Session 1 – June 16 @ 1PM EST
Title: Science Takes a Team: OCEARCH, Strandings, and Why They Matter
Overview: Get to know OCEARCH and explore how collaboration drives science forward. Learn why stranding events are critical sources of data for marine research.
Session 2 – June 18 @ 1PM EST
Title: What Beached Sharks Can Still Teach Us
Overview: Discover how tissue samples from deceased sharks can reveal valuable insights about shark biology and health.
Session 3 – June 23 @ 1PM EST
Title: What Strandings Reveal About Pollution
Overview: Investigate how strandings help us understand ocean stressors like red tides, domoic acid poisoning, plastic debris, and other pollution-related threats.
Session 4 – June 25 @ 1PM EST
Title: Be the Difference: How You Can Help Marine Life
Overview: Learn about NOAA’s role in marine mammal response, how to report strandings, and small steps you can take to protect ocean life.
Session 1 – July 14 @ 1PM EST
Title: Strandings and the Power of Scientific Collaboration
Overview: Get to know OCEARCH and explore how collaboration drives science forward. Take a deep dive into how stranding events and scientific partnerships drive forward our understanding of marine ecosystems.
Session 2 – July 16 @ 1PM EST
Title: Shark Science from the Shore: What Deceased Animals Can Reveal
Overview: Explore how partnerships with agencies like the National Park Service help scientists learn from stranded sharks and other marine animals.
Session 3 – July 21 @ 1PM EST
Title: Strandings and Ocean Health: Following the Microbial Trail
Overview: Examine how microbiological and tissue sampling from strandings sheds light on harmful algal blooms, environmental toxins, and unusual mortality events (UMEs).
Session 4 – July 23 @ 1PM EST
Title: Your Role in the Rescue: Taking Action for Stranded Wildlife
Overview: Discover how NOAA leads stranding responses and how students can be part of the solution by taking action in their communities.
Each session will include a 20-minute presentation by our expert presenter, Kara Lawless, followed by a 10-minute guest speaker spotlight. Engage in a 30-40 minute activity, participate in Q&A sessions, and share your thoughts in an open forum discussion.
Upon completion of the camp, participants will receive a certificate recognizing their dedication to learning about marine science and conservation.