Explore the Outdoors from Your Home with the Digital CCE Marine Program

The Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Marine Program strives to provide the community with helpful resources daily despite the virus that has entirely changed the ways we operate. In response to the Coronavirus, the CCE Marine Program has launched an at-home learning resource called Digital Education Initiative beginning the week of April 6. Each week the program will focus on one specific species or topic. Lessons will present a variety of media pieces and corresponding worksheets, lesson guides, and art tutorials that can be utilized by anyone looking to integrate some marine science enrichment into their home.

“We feel it’s so important at this time to stay connected with our community and continue working to help in any way we can. Education is a huge part of our mission and it’s our hope that this new initiative will be helpful in these times,” said Chris Pickerell, CCE Marine Program Director.

Visit the CCE Marine Program website to access all the created content at no cost. Topics covered include ospreys, alewives, clams, seahorses, horseshoe crabs, and water quality.

“Our team of educators are working hard to develop content that can be adapted for used by a K-12 audience. Learning tools can be integrated into curriculum by teachers, or utilized as enrichment resources for parents currently homeschooling their children,” noted CCE Marine Program Outreach Manager Kimberly Barbour.

This online program is perfect for someone who is interested in learning a little about the marine environment around us and would also serve as a fun refresher for an individual who enjoys the topics. We could all use a bit of educational distraction during these times.

There will be videos featuring “moments in nature” that have been developed to help individuals connect with the outdoors from the safety of their homes. The content comes from over 35 years of CCE Marine Program experience in the environment. These videos will provide an incredibly unique perspective as well as an opportunity to connect with the world around you. In addition, there are free activities on the website including picture searches, crossword puzzles, and coloring pages.

For anyone looking to tap into their creative side, there will be a weekly “ArtSEA with CCE” tutorial led by a local artist and CCE Art + Science instructor, Carolyn Munaco.

To learn more about these digital initiatives with the Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program, visit ccesuffolk.org.