Released: January 6, 2004
Contact: Matthew Chandler, 317.263.8976   

INDIANAPOLIS—On Friday, January 9, a group of seventh grade students from Southeast DuBois Community Schools will explore the marine life of Florida’s Gulf Coast without leaving their classroom thanks to the Indiana Higher Education Telecommunication System (IHETS) and SeaTrek, a distance learning program connecting them with scientists at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota via interactive video conferencing.

SeaTrek brings high-energy, multimedia marine science programming right into the classroom using video conferencing and Internet technology via Abilene, the nationwide high performance data network often referred to as Internet2. Their programs feature interaction with educators from the Mote laboratory, demonstrations by scientists working in the field, and interviews showing how their interests led them to their careers in science. Programs are designed to enrich science education and align with National Science Education Standards for grades four through eight.

The Southeast Dubois seventh graders will take part in SeaTrek’s “MISSION: See Deep ROV” program. Participating students will learn about the role remotely operated vehicles play in underwater cartography, marine biology, and underwater cinematography. They will also have a chance to pilot an ROV in the Mote shark tank using video conferencing technology.

“We believe that technology allows students to explore a world beyond our walls, and enables them to pursue their goals as lifelong learners,” says Karen Kippenbrock, Technology Coordinator for Southeast DuBois Community School Corporation. “The SeaTrek project helps us make this vision a reality.”

Kippenbrock worked with staff at IHETS to implement technology improvements allowing students improved access to a rich array of educational opportunities including distance learning.

IHETS is a consortium of higher education institutions in Indiana which operates technology networks, manages the state’s virtual university, and pursues applications  research and development. It is an integral part of the rapidly evolving telecommunication and educational technology environment in Indiana. More information may be found at www.ihets.org.

###