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Introduction to Marine Science
Feb 10, 2025

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The Introduction to Marine Science course offered by the University of California San Diego is an immersive learning opportunity that enables students to delve deep into the vast and complex world of our oceans. The course's main objective is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic processes that govern the marine environment, from the microscopic plankton that form the base of the food web to the majestic blue whales that traverse the ocean basins. This course aims to inspire a new generation of marine scientists equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to the understanding and preservation of our oceanic world. The course curriculum is extensive, covering a wide range of topics such as the intricate chemical cycles that sustain life in the oceans, the physical forces that shape marine habitats, and the diverse biological communities that inhabit them. Key areas of study include chemical oceanography, physical oceanography, biological oceanography, marine ecology, and the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. These topics will provide students with a thorough understanding of the relationships between marine organisms and their environments, the role of oceans in global chemical processes, and the effects of human activities on marine ecosystems. The course is delivered entirely online, allowing flexibility for students. The schedule includes synchronous sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4-5:20 PM PST, along with asynchronous lessons that require an additional 2-3 hours per week. This blended delivery format leverages both interactive and gamified lessons, student collaboration and discussion, guest speaker interactions, and guided virtual lab experiences. The course is set to run for eight weeks, from September 24 to November 14, and is taught by Nicole Yen. Although the specific qualifications and background of the instructor are not mentioned, the course is part of a broader marine science program designed to foster next-generation critical thinkers, communicators, creators, and stewards of the ocean environment. While the course does not specify any prerequisites or eligibility criteria, it does mention that it is suitable for 9th to 12th-grade students and recent graduates. Upon completion of the course, students will be prepared for diverse careers in marine research, policy development, environmental stewardship, and other related fields. They will gain a thorough understanding of the marine environment, which will be crucial in contributing to the understanding and preservation of our oceanic world.

written by
Rishab Jain