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  • Virtual Field Studies, Simulations and Role Play Resources: The Role Bivalves Play in Sustaining Local Watershed Ecosystems.
Title: Virtual Field Studies, Simulations and Role Play Resources: The Role Bivalves Play in Sustaining Local Watershed Ecosystems.
The Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU) three-year National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) grant worked with four school districts along the James River in Virginia helped teachers and the students they serve understand the role bivalves play in sustaining local watershed ecosystems. Two colleges across three centers at VCU contributed to the grant, which include the School of Education Center for Innovation in STEM Education, and VCU Life Sciences that included the VCU Rice Rivers Center and the Center for Environmental Studies. External partners included the Harrison Lake National Fish Hatchery-US Fish and Wildlife Service, the James River Association and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation to help deliver a comprehensive program. Students shared their stewardship efforts at the Virginia State Capitol. Five free environmental science modules (a collection of thematic lessons coupled with digital media) developed through this NOAA grant are housed at the the Virginia Department of Education “Go OpenVA” education portal. The modules present lessons in the following areas: a) virtual field studies for mussels and oysters, b) online role-play experiences for mussels and oysters, and c) an online simulation integrating the impact and sustainability of mussels in an agricultural environment.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
2120665
PAR ID:
10556317
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ; ;
Publisher / Repository:
National Earth Science Teachers Association
Date Published:
Journal Name:
The Earth scientist
Volume:
XL
Issue:
4
ISSN:
1045-4772
Page Range / eLocation ID:
13-23
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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