AMCC’s Ocean Home Institute introduces youth in remote, coastal communities to scientific technology and practice through presentations by scientists in schools and marine science field camps.

Field camps engage middle and high school youth in rigorous, hands-on study of marine ecology through field surveys, research and exploration of diverse marine habitats. Working alongside marine biologists, camp participants learn to hone their powers of observation and to document their discoveries using scientific methods. To assist in their exploration, students have the opportunity to use a range of scientific technology including microscopes, GPS, weather stations and an underwater camera fixed to a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV).

During camp, participants also learn from elders and are encouraged to share their own local knowledge. Camp emphasizes total immersion in an experiential learning environment. Each new day yields discovery and a greater understanding of each marine organism’s niche in the ecosystem and our responsibility as local stewards. 

The camps are carried out through cooperative partnerships with tribal councils. You can read about Nuniaq Marine Science Camp which took place near the village of Old Harbor on Kodiak Island in 2006.