Rationale and Position
The New England Ocean Science Education Collaborative (NEOSEC) works collectively to engage all individuals in becoming ocean literate. Understanding the ocean is integral to comprehending the Earthโs systems and life on this planet. We recognize that historical oppression has skewed who is currently accessing this knowledge and related occupations. Mission Statement
The New England Ocean Science Education Collaborative (NEOSEC) leverages and strengthens the regionโs extraordinary ocean science and educational assets to advance understanding of the vital connections between people and the ocean. Vision Statement
All individuals and communities are engaged in ocean science learning in New England and are welcomed and supported to have a strong relationship with the ocean. Guiding Principles:
Collaboration
NEOSEC seeks to establish productive partnerships to meet member and collaborative goals. The collaborative represents the shared work and goals of its partner organizations. We build capacity among New England organizations that serve New England audiences in the enterprise of developing ocean literacy. Staff support is a foundational element of the Collaborativeโs structure and enables effective volunteer leadership and participation by members; this volunteer capacity is equally crucial to maintaining a robust network. We are careful not to compete with members for authority, influence, project ideas, or to engage in political lobbying. Connecting ocean science and education
NEOSEC is committed to education that is grounded in sound scientific research. We partner with a wide range of professionals - including engineers, resource managers, and policy-makers. These partnerships enable us to increase our impact by infusing our programs with relevant expertise, access to research tools and resources, and real world applications of science and career exploration opportunities. NEOSEC aims to develop programs and resources that are tested, evaluated, and based on sound educational research. The Collaborative advances best practices in education through innovation, learning from experience, and dissemination. Equity, Access, and Belonging
Engaging all individuals, including those within marginalized communities, is vital to building an ocean literate populace. The richness and relevance of science and education is greatly enhanced when we incorporate a range of perspectives. We center intersectionality, promote racial justice, and steep our work in critical consciousness.
