Education & engagement theme

Marine education works best when learning moves from the classroom to the lab and coast

MER designs field-to-classroom programmes, reusable learning materials and professional training that help people observe, understand and explain marine ecosystems through direct experience.

Discuss a programme or training opportunity Back to education & engagement

Good environmental education is not only about awareness. It helps people recognise species, read habitats, test environmental parameters and understand how human activities affect the sea. MER turns marine science into structured learning experiences through shore and boat-based activities, laboratory sessions, guided observation and reusable resources such as citizen handbooks and field materials.

This includes school programmes, teacher-ready educational packages, university-linked practical training, seminars for educators and divers, and hybrid formats that combine indoor learning with coastal field practice. The aim is to leave participants with skills and materials they can use again, not just a one-off event.

Typical support

School and youth marine-learning programmes Built around observation, experimentation and real coastal settings.
Teacher-ready educational packages and guides So learning can continue after the field session ends.
Field, lab and shoreline practical sessions To connect explanation with species, habitats and environmental measurements.
University-linked practical training and dissertation support For students who need hands-on experience with marine methods and interpretation.
Workshops for teachers, trainers, divers and practitioners Including hybrid and in-person formats with practical tools and examples.
Bilingual materials, worksheets and evaluation tools To make programmes easier to deliver, repeat and assess over time.

Example Projects

Educational packages SEAMIND Interactive marine-learning modules, field trips, hands-on experiments and teacher materials designed for young learners. Training & outreach RECONNECT Educational material, open-day activities, Researchers’ Night participation and training seminars linked to marine protected-area management. Teacher-facing workshop Marine education in practice Workshop sharing field guides, teaching content, classroom and field activities, and evaluation tools for teachers and trainers. Diver training Posidonia seminars across Cyprus Introductory seminars that trained divers and local participants to support awareness, stewardship and restoration-oriented action.

Frequently asked questions

Who are MER’s environmental education programmes for?

MER can support schools, teachers, students, university groups, trainers, divers, NGOs and other partners who need marine learning with a strong practical component.

Does MER offer both school programmes and professional training?

Yes. MER can support youth learning, teacher-facing activities, practical university training and workshop formats for educators, trainers and practitioners.

Can MER create reusable teaching materials and field guides?

Yes. MER can develop educational packages, species-identification materials, safety guides, worksheets and evaluation tools that support repeat delivery.

Can MER combine classroom, lab and field learning in one programme?

Yes. MER can design programmes that combine theory, laboratory activities and direct coastal or marine field experience. Use the contact page to discuss a programme.