The long and sunny summer days take each one of us to special memories at the beach. It is no secret that our oceans are threatened by climate change, plastics pollution and human activities. Sylvia Earle, oceanographer said it best, "No water, no life. No blue, no green." How are we using technology to aid in this coexistent relationship?
Satellites map the oceans' floors, monitor water temperatures and currents, and provide insights into climate patterns and the impacts of global warming.
Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) enable scientists to access deep-sea ecosystems. AI and machine learning algorithms analyze massive sets of data, so researchers can track migration patterns and assess the health of coral reefs.
Drones identify marine debris enabling targeted cleanup efforts.
The technology and engineering of biodegradable plastic alternatives are being developed to reduce marine pollution.
Satellites and GPS tracking systems monitor fishing vessels. This aids in preventing illegal fishing. Smart nets technology helps to identify the different species of fish reducing overfishing.
In the 23-24 school year, the implementation of drones in one of our new elective modules will be very exciting and fun! However, it is vital that students know the real world application and pause to reflect on its impact, as well as the capability to solve major world problems. To people in the sub-Sahara of Africa, malaria remains one of the world’s most devastating diseases. The disease infects over 200 million each year and
kills hundreds of thousands of people. Drones provide health surveillance,
transport of sprays to control mosquitos and their larvae, imagery and training
opportunities for local Malawians to prevent and reduce the impact malaria
has on their local populations.
EDUCATOR SPOTLIGHT
Patrice Booth is a gift in the classroom! She studied Graphic Design at George Mason University. Prior to ETP, Patrice was an aftercare teacher at Virginia Academy. When in the classroom setting, Patrice enjoys using Pixton, code.org and YouTube. Pixton is a comic creation site used in the classroom. Teachers and students create and share comic strips.
The Piper Kits are Patrice's favorite hands-on module that ETP provides. If one is unfamiliar with these, Piper its are DIY computer kits. Students use skills in coding, electronics and
computer science while building a fully functioning computer. An aspiration Patrice has for her students is that they become respectful and kind adults who believe they can pursue their dreams. In her free time, Patrice watches YouTube to learn new things like how to grow gourmet mushrooms. She enjoys learning new ways to grow her personal faith, while being active in her church. She lives with her parents and two siblings.