In response to the academic shutdown caused by COVID-19 pandemic, the Organization of Biological Field Stations (OBFS) launched an emergency grassroots effort to create and distribute virtual learning resources from field stations and marine laboratory (FSMLs) to support faculty, students, and others. The initial effort resulted in a coalition of 50+ member FSMLs across the world that began developing virtual content, with the focus of teaching observational skills through virtual experiences.
To assist the field sites and educators in developing and accessing these experiences, a core team of scientists and educators was awarded a RAPID grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF # 2031815). This web portal is one result of the grant. The portal allows collaborators to create experiences, and educators to access both the experiences and the associated instructional materials. All users can view (and enjoy!) the Ecosystem Experiences Videos, the Live from the Field events, and the resources listed in Discover More.
Virtual materials have been developed with the aid of field station staff using the 4DEE Ecological Framework.
4DEE Framework: The Framework, developed by the Ecological Society of America, provides a development environment that allows researchers and faculty to introduce complex ecological concepts to students and the public.
Field Stations: Field stations and marine laboratories are centers of scientific research, conservation, education, and outreach embedded in the environment. Roughly 75% are affiliated with universities. We encourage field stations around the globe to contribute to the place-based learning effort of The Virtual Field.
Research Coordination Network: Field stations and marine laboratories are centers of scientific research, conservation, education, and outreach embedded in the environment. Roughly 75% are affiliated with universities. We encourage field stations around the globe to contribute to the place-based learning effort of The Virtual Field.