"Marine Ecosystem Educational Material Development and Implementation with High School Students on Akyaka Beach"
This training is designed for high school students selected for their interest in research and innovation culture.The training aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of the global significance of marine ecosystems, focusing on biotic and abiotic factors, food webs, habitats, and biodiversity—particularly within the Mediterranean context. Participants are encouraged to develop a holistic perspective on marine life, from plankton to apex predators, and gain awareness of the impact of invasive species. The program also highlights the socio-economic and ecological services provided by the sea.
In addition to designing an affordable Secchi disk for water clarity measurements, participants will be introduced to key field techniques such as the Forel-Ule scale for water color assessment, quadrat and macro-litter shoreline monitoring methods, and the use of plankton nets for sampling. These hands-on activities aim to strengthen scientific literacy and promote engagement in citizen science.The practical and applied components of the training will be conducted in Gökova Bay, one of Turkey’s officially designated Special Environmental Protection Areas (SEPA), providing participants with a unique opportunity to explore and observe a nationally protected marine ecosystem.