Instructional Design for Change: Educating Future Marine Biologists and Ocean Scientists

The oceans cover over 70% of our planet’s surface, yet they remain a vast mystery to many. From the depths of the Mariana Trench to the coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef, the oceans are full of life, beauty, and untapped scientific potential. However, with ocean pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss threatening these vital ecosystems, the need for passionate ocean scientists has never been greater.

This June 8, as we celebrate World Ocean Day, it’s important to reflect on how we can better equip the next generation of marine biologists, oceanographers, and environmental scientists to protect our oceans. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is instructional design (ID).

Let’s review how ID can shape courses and resources that inspire and prepare students to pursue careers in ocean science. Whether it’s designing interactive lessons, creating field-based experiences, or developing real-world simulations, instructional designers (IDs) play a pivotal role in preparing future ocean stewards to take action.

The Power of Instructional Design in Ocean Science Education

IDs creating a learning experience that engages students, sparks curiosity, and encourages critical thinking. When it comes to complex and multifaceted fields like marine biology and oceanography, ID helps make the content accessible, engaging, and memorable.

To educate future marine biologists and ocean scientists effectively, IDs employ various strategies that bring the complexities of ocean science to life. From interactive simulations to multimedia-rich content, these strategies ensure that students don’t just learn about the oceans, they connect with them.

1. Blended Learning: Combining Theory with Hands-On Experience

Marine biology is not just about reading textbooks—it’s about experiencing the ocean in all its glory and challenges. Instructional design can bridge the gap between theory and practice through blended learning models. This approach combines online learning (where students can digest foundational concepts about marine ecosystems, marine life, ocean currents, and environmental threats) with in-person field experiences (where they can see it all in action).

For example, a course on coral reef ecosystems might begin with an interactive module on reef biology and the environmental threats they face. Students would then engage in field-based learning, such as virtual underwater exploration or even a hands-on reef restoration project. This combination deepens their understanding and gives them a firsthand look at the importance of preserving marine habitats.

2. Gamification: Making Ocean Science Fun and Actionable

As marine science can sometimes feel daunting, gamification is a powerful tool to engage students while keeping them motivated to learn. IDs can incorporate game elements like point scoring, challenges, and simulations to create interactive learning experiences that feel less like “studying” and more like “playing.”

Imagine a simulation where students must act as ocean conservationists trying to save a coral reef from the dangers of pollution, overfishing, and climate change. They would need to make decisions, solve problems, and see the impact of their actions. It’s an engaging, memorable way to learn about the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and the challenges scientists face in their preservation.

Gamification makes learning more engaging, but it also helps students see the real-world consequences of their actions, teaching them that the fight to protect our oceans is not just an academic pursuit, but one that demands action.

3. Storytelling: Connecting Emotionally to the Oceans

Stories have a unique power to connect us emotionally and inspire change. In ID, storytelling is a method used to humanize complex topics and create emotional connections with the content. For marine biology courses, storytelling can highlight the lives of individual marine species, the experiences of ocean explorers, or even the communities whose livelihoods depend on healthy oceans.

Imagine a documentary-style module where students follow the journey of a marine biologist as they explore the hidden depths of the ocean or work to save an endangered species. By weaving real-life stories into the curriculum, students not only gain knowledge but also develop empathy for the oceans and the organisms that live in them.

4. Real-World Applications: Learning Through Collaboration

One of the most impactful ways to engage future ocean scientists is by involving them in real-world applications. Instructional design can support this by incorporating project-based learning (PBL), where students collaborate to solve real-world environmental problems.

For instance, a course on oceanography might involve students working together to develop a plan for reducing plastic waste in coastal communities. Students would use data collection, analysis, and research skills to create actionable solutions. This method of learning not only strengthens problem-solving skills but also empowers students to be part of the global conversation around ocean preservation.

Through PBL, students begin to see the practical value of their education and how it connects directly to efforts like those being undertaken by scientists, conservationists, and policymakers to protect the oceans.

How Instructional Design Inspires Action on World Ocean Day

World Ocean Day serves as a reminder that our oceans need our help—and the next generation of ocean scientists will play a crucial role in that effort. By using ID to create engaging, hands-on, and emotionally impactful learning experiences, we can inspire students to act in preserving our oceans.

IDs, educators, and marine science professionals can all contribute to this mission by creating learning materials and experiences that are rooted in real-world issues. Whether it’s through a captivating online course, an immersive field trip, or a powerful simulation game, these experiences can spark the passion needed to drive change and fuel the next generation of ocean advocates.

As you reflect on the significance of World Ocean Day, think about how ID tools can help empower the ocean scientists of tomorrow to make a lasting difference. Our oceans are counting on them. With the right education, they’ll be ready to answer the call. 

Related Blogs

From Good to Great: Elevating Instructional Design Beyond the Basics

Why Modern Training Must Emphasize Creative Learning Experiences

Best Practices for Collaboration Between Outsourced Instructional Designers and Teachers

References

“54 Gamification Statistics You Must Know: 2024 Market Share Analysis & Data.” FinancesOnline.com. Accessed 5/22/25. https://financesonline.com/gamification-statistics 

Cleveland-Innes, Martha, and Dan Wilton. “Guide to Blended Learning.” Accessed 5/22/25. https://pressbooks.bccampus.ca/guidetoblendedlearning/chapter/chapter-3-successful-blended-learning 

Lawless, Caroline. “What is Project-Based Learning? A Guide for Corporate Trainers.” Accessed 5/22/25. https://www.learnupon.com/blog/what-is-project-based-learning 

“The Ocean: Introduction to the Oceans.” NOAA.gov. Accessed 5/22/25. https://www.noaa.gov/jetstream/ocean 

Tulsiani, Dr. Ravinder. “The Role Of Storytelling In Instructional Design.” eLearning Industry. 9/28/2023. Accessed 5/22/25. https://elearningindustry.com/the-role-of-storytelling-in-instructional-design