Workshop kit for promoting marine education using resin-embedded specimens of Southern Ocean zooplankton

Abstract

In recent years, learning styles involving observation and experimentation have been recommended for schools as a form of active learning. The National Institute of Polar Research is promoting the improvement and increased production of resin-embedded zooplankton specimens for use in marine education. Based on trials and questionnaires completed by current teachers, we created a marine educational workshop kit comprising resin-embedded specimens, observation tools, a booklet, worksheets, introductory videos for participants, and workshop programs. The kit is designed mainly for junior high school students and can be used for remote (online) workshops to facilitate online learning necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. We have requested school teachers to try using the kit and identify various applications of the kit. We began loaning out the kits in November 2021. We hope that many teachers who have not had the chance to conduct marine education will start using this kit.