Discovery, Exploration, and the Mysteries of the Deep
Ocean science has long captured the public imagination, fueled by the thrill of discovery and the promise of unlocking nature’s secrets. From the iconic expeditions of the past to the cutting-edge technologies of today, the field of ocean research has captivated diverse audiences, sparking curiosity and a desire to better understand our watery world.
At the heart of this fascination lies the concept of discovery – the unearthing of new species, the charting of uncharted territories, and the elucidation of complex oceanic processes. This spirit of exploration has shaped not only the trajectory of ocean science, but also public perceptions and engagement with the field.
In this article, we delve into the multifaceted relationship between the public and ocean discovery, exploring how free-choice learning environments, such as museums and aquariums, foster the public’s understanding and appreciation of this dynamic discipline. Drawing on insights from the United States and Taiwan, we examine how individuals of all ages navigate the intersection of curiosity, wonder, and the unknown when it comes to the ocean.
Navigating the Depths of Discovery
The term “discovery” carries multiple interpretations within the realms of science and science communication. Traditionally, it has been seen as the creative uncovering of nature’s secrets, a view that dates back to the European Renaissance. Discovery has also been described as the product of applying creative thinking and analytical methods, as well as the outcome of exploration.
In the context of ocean science, discovery is often portrayed as a journey for both professional scientists and the general public. Scientists are frequently depicted as explorers on missions to uncover previously undocumented phenomena, locations, and organisms. This perception is mirrored in national-level ocean literacy policy documents, where the terms “discover” and “exploration” are inextricably linked.
However, the vast and largely unexplored nature of the ocean also contributes to social constructions of ocean science that emphasize and celebrate the place of discovery as the primary role of ocean scientists. This perspective can sometimes make motivating ocean stewardship difficult if the ocean is perceived as an endlessly bountiful resource.
Beyond curiosity, ‘exploration, experimentation, and discovery are required to better understand ocean systems and processes,’ as outlined in the National Marine Educators Association’s ocean literacy principles. Yet, without clear connections to immediate practical applications, some publics may perceive ocean science as distant from their everyday concerns.
Bridging this knowledge gap requires two-way communication that fosters dialogue between marine scientists and the public, ensuring that both sides can share perspectives and inform decision-making. Science communication strategies such as storytelling, visual media, and educational outreach are vital tools for making ocean discoveries accessible, relatable, and impactful to diverse audiences.
Discovering Discovery in Free-Choice Learning
Free-choice learning (FCL) environments, such as museums, aquariums, and outdoor spaces, play a crucial role in fostering public engagement with ocean science. These settings not only offer fun and engaging experiences, but also spark curiosity and encourage a lifelong desire for science learning.
Whether visitors are exploring a beach, interacting with a marine exhibit, or simply observing the environment, these activities have the potential to deepen understanding and appreciation for the ocean. The personal freedom to explore at one’s own pace in FCL settings makes science more accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful by encouraging personal discovery and presenting phenomena ‘from the field’.
FCL’s flexible and immersive approach is particularly valuable when tackling complex subjects like ocean science, where knowledge gaps and uncertainties often exist. Many people engage with ocean research and discover solutions to ocean-related challenges through it. This approach offers dynamic and interactive experiences that captivate diverse audiences and inspire open-minded, lifelong learning in more effective ways than traditional classroom settings.
One powerful tool used in FCL research is Personal Meaning Mapping (PMM), which allows researchers to track how an individual’s knowledge, attitudes, and interests evolve as they discover ocean science content. By allowing participants to reflect on and document their understanding over time, PMM values individual understandings and personal cognitive and socio-emotional connections to ocean science.
Discovering Discovery: Three Perspectives
The power of FCL in fostering ocean discovery is exemplified through three participant excerpts from a case study examining cultural-historical contexts and ocean-oriented Environmental Identities and Worldviews (EIW) in the United States and Taiwan.
In the first example, a Taiwanese student (Participant 40) drew many question marks in their ocean-themed illustration, expressing their awareness of the significant unknown aspects of the ocean. Motivated by this curiosity, they decided to join the marine club to further their understanding and contribute to exploring these global oceanic mysteries.
Another participant, an indigenous student (Participant 5) from Arizona, added marine-related content to their illustration after a tour at the Hatfield Marine Science Center, reflecting how FCL experiences can inspire the integration of new knowledge into one’s ocean-oriented EIW.
The third example showcases a student from a U.S. public school (Participant 35) who vividly remembered the BP oil spill, which heightened their awareness of the uncertain state of marine welfare and sparked a desire to learn more about the ocean through documentaries, museums, and hands-on experimentation. Their PMM drawing resembles a mind map, demonstrating how they connected their prior knowledge with new insights from these FCL experiences.
These examples illustrate how individual exploration, combined with “aha” moments and natural wonder, can trigger the formation of ocean-oriented EIW. They also highlight the role of FCL in this process, showcasing how ocean scientists’ research can inspire young people to discover approaches to solving ocean science-related problems.
Navigating the Legacies of Discovery
The vast and largely unexplored ocean remains a mystery to discover. As articulated by historical and contemporary figures, the quest to uncover the secrets of blue spaces is far from over. Modern technology coupled with scientific curiosity continues to drive this exploration forward, and the ongoing fascination with discovery in ocean science is mirrored in public perception and educational approaches.
However, accounts of ocean science as discovery-based are complicit with conceptions of science and scientists as existing outside of the boundaries of everyday life. The “eureka” or “aha” moment of discovery, as well as the romantic narrative of scientists as conquerors and explorers, are implicated in a legacy of harm, including exploitation, colonialism, and environmental degradation.
Hence, appreciating the importance of discovery through exploration is an important element of our accounts of ocean science, but at the same time, these accounts risk exacerbating problematic values in science. Communicating ocean science requires more than just sharing facts; it requires an active examination of past discoveries, current research, and future challenges.
FCL provides tools and experiences to support individuals in developing a deep, personal connection to the ocean — one that motivates them to continue exploring, learning, and advocating for marine sciences. The legacy of discovery in ocean science, therefore, is not just about what is known, but about how that knowledge is acquired, shared, and used; considerations that should apply to all discovery sciences.
As we look to the future, ocean perceptions research and the integration of diverse social science methods will be essential in bridging the knowledge gap between marine scientists and the public. By fostering dialogue, inspiring wonder, and highlighting the relevance of ocean science in addressing global challenges, we can cultivate a more informed and engaged citizenry, committed to the stewardship of our vast, mysterious, and ever-evolving blue spaces.
