Ocean
Literacy Platform
Expanding access. Inspiring connection.
Building the next generation of ocean stewards.
ABOUT THE PLATFORM
Saltwater Classroom’s Ocean Literacy Platform is an interactive web-based resource designed for learners and educators. Featuring lessons and activities on a range of ocean science and conservation topics, this tool provides equitable and engaging learning opportunities for students everywhere. It’s free to use and easily adaptable for classroom use, community programming, or individual exploration.
CONTENT AND CURRICULUM
Learn Through Badges
Educational content on the Saltwater Classroom Ocean Literacy Platform is organized into badge-based learning pathways. Each badge explores an ocean-related topic, ecosystem, career, challenge, or solution, such as our Intertidal Explorer, Oyster Farm Pioneer, or Habitat Hero badges.
Badges typically include 4-6 lessons and feature a mix of hands-on activities, virtual field trips, and real-world stories. As learners complete lessons, they earn badges that recognize their progress and growing understanding. All lessons are designed to be accessible, engaging, and doable with common household or classroom materials.
EDUCATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
Built With Collaboration
The most powerful learning experiences come from real people doing real work. We partner with nonprofits, businesses, researchers, educators, community leaders, and more to develop badges that showcase their expertise, solutions, and local stories.
As a Educational Collaborator, you have the opportunity to inspire future generations while highlighting important work and initiatives. You can reach educators and learners, showcase career pathways, and contribute to meaningful ocean education.
Interested in collaborating?
Download our Educational Collaboration Guide or contact our team to start the conversation.
IMPLEMENTATION
Pilot In-Progress
The time has come to implement the Ocean Literacy Platform in classrooms, community centers, and homes in our home state of Maine and beyond. Initially, we are reaching out to existing connections and specific new communities. Early use will be an opportunity for feedback to ensure the resource and content is engaging, accessible, and effective. As the platform grows, we will continue to expand content, strengthen partnerships, and increase opportunities for learners more broadly.
Curious to join the pilot?
Awesome! Complete the form below to express your interest or reach out with questions.
PLATFORM OBJECTIVES
The Big Picture
Goal #1:
EQUITABLE ACCESS TO OCEAN EDUCATION
We aim to make high-quality ocean education accessible to all learners, regardless of geography, background, or resources. By reducing barriers to participation, we can create a more diverse and inclusive network of ocean-literate thinkers and problem solvers.
What this looks like:
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Flexible learning for coastal and inland communities
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Low-cost implementation, free-to-use resource
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Partnerships with schools and educators to expand reach
Goal #2:
HANDS-ON, NATURE-BASED LEARNING
We create engaging learning experiences that connect students to the ocean through interactive, real-world exploration. Our approach encourages learners to investigate, create, and observe, both online and in their own communities and environments.
What this looks like:
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Hands-on activities and experiments
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Virtual field trips and immersive content
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Learning opportunities that encourage curiosity and discovery
Goal #3:
BLUE ECONOMY WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
We cultivate curiosity about marine and STEM careers by exposing students to the diverse opportunities within the Blue Economy. By introducing learners to professionals, industries, and innovative solutions, we help inspire a new generation of diverse, tenacious leaders in our ocean-driven economy.
What this looks like:
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Early exposure to a wide range of ocean-related careers
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Real-world stories from industry professionals
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Connections between learning and future opportunities
Interested in joining our pilot? Send a note!
