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Ocean Literacy

NEOSEC & Ocean Literacy

NEOSEC is an organization made up of ocean education institutions around New England with the collective goal of increasing Ocean Literacy. NEOSEC recognizes that understanding the ocean is integral to comprehending the Earth’s systems and life on this planet, and has identified Ocean Literacy as a key goal for all of New England. One of our key goals is leveraging New England’s extraordinary assets to highlight the vital connections between people and the ocean.

What is Ocean Literacy?

Ocean literacy is an understanding of the ocean’s influence on you and your influence on the ocean.  An ocean-literate person:

  • Understands the essential principles and fundamental concepts about the functioning of the ocean;
  • Can communicate about the ocean in a meaningful way; and
  • Is able to make informed and responsible decisions regarding the ocean and its resources.

In October 2005, several national organizations (National Geographic Society, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Centers for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence, College of Exploration, and National Marine Educators’ Association) published a list of seven Essential Principles and 44 Fundamental Concepts that currently define Ocean Literacy. This definition is the result of discussions among 100 scientists and educators, and serves as a national standard for ocean science education. Visit the national OSL website for more information. In addition, the National Marine Educators Association Special Report on Ocean Literacy Scope and Sequence has been released. You can access a web-based version of the scope and sequence charts and also read extracts from the NMEA Special Report online.

Download the Ocean Literacy brochure. [pdf]

Promoting Ocean Literacy


NEOSEC members have agreed to adapt their organizational efforts to include Ocean Literacy principles and concepts directly, as content for new programs and/or for existing ones. In addition, the biannual NEOSEC Summit serves to introduce Ocean Literacy concepts and tools to New England teachers, scientists, educators, policymakers, and science and education writers.

The Ocean7 Voyage of Discovery is a NEOSEC project designed to take you on a voyage around New England to discover how you are connected to the ocean.