Since 2002, the Centers for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence (COSEE) Network has grown to 14 thematic and regional Centers located around the United States. The overall mission is “to spark and nurture collaborations among research scientists and educators to advance ocean discovery and make known the vital role of the ocean in our lives.”
Although each Center is funded individually, the Network of Centers has established its own set of goals:
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Fostering the integration of ocean research into high-quality educational materials
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Enabling ocean researchers to gain a better understanding of educational organizations and pedagogy
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Enhancing educators' capacity to deliver high-quality educational programs in the ocean sciences
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Promoting a deeper understanding of the ocean and its influence on each person's quality of life and our national prosperity
In addition, the Network has developed a Strategic Business Plan (April 2005) that documents our Values & Vision:
Values - What We Stand For
Leadership
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We are passionate and tenacious about delivering quality results that matter to the world
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We are strategic visionaries and catalysts for change
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We are committed to the generation and dissemination of new knowledge
Collaboration
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We recognize the value of diversity and the power of our collective work
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We build effective partnerships to leverage greater outcomes than we could achieve alone
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We foster information sharing and open communication
Innovation
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We embrace natural curiosity and inspire learning
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We are creative, resourceful problem-solvers
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We encourage risk-taking that leads to new ideas and novel solutions
Vision - Our Picture of the Ideal Future
The COSEE Network is a sustainable force…
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The public values the ocean as an integral part of the Earth system
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A vibrant and effective COSEE Network has expanded its partnerships and influence throughout the Nation
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The COSEE Network is well-funded by multiple public and private institutions
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Ocean scientists, ocean engineers, educators and public and private leaders have forged powerful partnerships to deliver relevant, exciting products and services that inspire and inform the public
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Diverse people of all ages are learning about the ocean and pursuing careers in science
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Science discoveries are contributing to effective ocean policy decisions as well as science education reform
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We have internationally recognized spokespersons and exciting, ongoing media coverage about the ocean
