In October 2005, several national organizations (National Geographic Society, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, COSEE, College of Exploration, and the National Marine Educators' Association) published a list of 7 Essential Principles and 44 Fundamental Concepts that currently define Ocean Science Literacy. This definition is the result of discussions among 100 scientists and educators, and serves as a national standard for ocean science education. This guide contains the Essential Principles and Fundamental Concepts and other information on ocean literacy and presents a vision of an ocean-literate society. A practical resource for educators, it outlines the knowledge required to be considered ocean literate in accordance with the National Science Education Standards
