"The COSEE network promotes a better understanding of the key role the ocean plays in global environmental cycles and processes. COSEE activities highlight the contributions ocean science researchers make to scientific knowledge in these important areas. NSF is encouraging the ocean-science research community to become more involved in education at all levels." (Larry Clark, acting director of NSF's Division of Ocean Sciences, NSF press release January 3, 2006)

Each COSEE represents one or more ocean science research institutions, an informal science education organization, and at least one affiliate organization representing the formal education community.

Download  COSEE Brochure

Center activities include:

• establishing links between people and organizations conducting ocean science research and those providing educational leadership or outreach among diverse communities
• providing expertise and guidance for research scientists involved in education, such as conducting workshops to encourage scientists to develop collaborative grant proposals with educators or to experiment with various education and teaching strategies
• providing incentives and assistance for school districts and teachers to integrate ocean sciences into their curricula
• facilitating the integration of research results into high-quality educational materials, as well as fostering the development and dissemination of those materials both regionally and nationally

View summary information about NSF's COSEE awards here.

The Consortium for Oceanographic Research and Education (CORE) in Washington D.C. coordinates the network and promotes the program, including outreach to professional societies and organizations.

Other partners at the national level include the Bridge project at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, the National Sea Grant College Program, and the Office of Program Evaluation at the University of South Carolina.