Ocean Literacy: Examining the Inclusion of the Ocean Literacy Principles within High School Science Courses in Nova Scotia

Abstract

The defining feature on earth, the ocean is an essential component in enabling the existence of life on earth. As anthropogenic threats to the ocean increase, it is integral for individuals to become ocean literate to better understand their effect on the ocean and make informed decisions regarding the health of this resource. Within Nova Scotia, the ocean plays an important role in terms of the economy and culture of the province. Despite this importance, research shows that Nova Scotian youth have low levels of knowledge on ocean concepts. This lack of ocean literacy may be partially a result of the formal education system. Recognizing the importance of developing ocean literate citizens, this study investigated the extent to which internationally established Ocean Literacy Principles are included in the Nova Scotia high school science curriculum and examined the challenges and barriers of implementation experienced by high school science teachers within Nova Scotia.