MOP Project Ideas
Outreach & Education

Local School Outreach

Local teachers often approach UH Hilo Marine Science and Marine Option Program for assistance bringing marine-related education into their classrooms. UH Hilo students can provide them with great experiences through outreach activities.

Activities: Coordinate and perform outreach activities with local school teachers and students. Activities could include live animal touch tanks, display of educational posters, display of props (dead coral, preserved fish, and other items), and educational games.

Mokupapapa Discovery Center

Website: www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/education/center.html

In 2003, the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center (MDC) was established to interpret the natural science, culture, and history of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and surrounding marine environment. Since most people will never have the opportunity to visit these remote islands, this facility on the bayfront in Hilo, Hawai`i serves to "bring the place to the people" and spur greater public awareness of the region and ocean conservation issues. In this visitor center, the nature and culture of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands come alive as never before, transporting visitors to this remote ocean wilderness where predators rule the reefs, the skies teem with swooping, screeching seabirds, and the Native Hawaiian chanting of the Kumulipo (a Hawaiian creation chant) sets the mood for exploration and learning.

Activities: Among other things, students interning with Mokupapapa might interact with visitors, maintain the 3,500 gallon aquarium, or develop exhibits.