Science Talks

by Mote Marine Laboratory

Mote Science Talks bring the wonders of the ocean to your audience through engaging, multimedia presentations featuring our cutting-edge marine research. Each session connects learners with professional speakers and world-class scientists to explore the past, present, and future of marine science. Presentations showcase real-world data, innovative technologies, and global conservation efforts, from coral reef restoration to marine animal rescue. Participants gain a deeper understanding of how Mote is advancing the science of the sea and how research informs the sustainable use of our oceans.

A great choice for 6–12 classrooms, early college, adult lifelong learners, homeschool groups, nature centers, and public libraries.

Choose from any of the following topics. Please note your choice under Additional Information for Content Provider to Know when booking.

Mote Science Talk Topics

Ocean Innovations: Discover marine-based medicines, methods to combat harmful algal blooms, and autonomous vehicles used for ocean monitoring.
Toxins and Tides: Explore the biology of red tide and the high-tech sensors used to track and mitigate these blooms.
Coral Conservation: Learn how Mote is restoring coral reefs through pioneering research and restoration.
Hatchery to Habitat: Examine the science of sustainable aquaculture and how it supports the restoration of wild fisheries.
Marine Life Matters: Investigate the biodiversity of our oceans and how Mote’s research protects vulnerable marine species like sharks, sea turtles, and manatees.
Marine Mammals: Dive into the critical work of rescuing and rehabilitating manatees, dolphins, and more.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is an independent, nonprofit research institution. We are proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), meeting rigorous professional standards for animal care, wildlife conservation, research, and education.

Program Rating

This program has not yet been evaluated.

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About This Program

Cost

By Request: $180.00
By Request Premium: $162.00

Programming available 9:00 am–5:30 pm ET. Programs should be booked at least three weeks in advance so we can coordinate with animal care staff and confirm your focal animal’s availability. Scheduling may be affected by weather or veterinary priorities. Weekend and after hours (5:30 pm ET) requests are available for an additional fee.

Billing Questions: please contact our Operations & Administration Manager (educate@mote.org, 941-388-4441;348).

Sarasota Teachers: Our EdExploreSRQ listings are eligible for funding from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, as well as the Education Foundation of Sarasota County. Find out how to fund your virtual field trip.

Length

Up to 60 minutes (with time for Q&A)

Target Audience

Education: Grade(s) 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, Teacher(s)/Educator(s), Parent, Adult Learners, Homeschool/Family , Learning PodPublic Library: Library Patrons, Library Staff

Minimum participants:

Maximum participants:

100

Primary Disciplines

Online Learning/Digital Learning , Online Learning/Digital Learning , Career & Technical Education (CTE), Economics/Business, Industrial Technology, Professional Development, Science, STEM, Technology/Information Science

Program Delivery Mode

Zoom

Booking Information

Mote reserves the right to modify program content or schedules as needed. Changes made by Mote do not qualify for a refund. Program elements may vary due to weather or veterinary needs. While we strive to deliver all experiences as described, a mix of live and pre-recorded video may be used to maintain program quality.

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Receive this program and 9 more for one low price when you purchase the CILC Virtual Expeditions package. Learn more

For more information contact CILC by email info@cilc.org or by phone (507) 388-3672

Provider's Cancellation Policy

Effective 7/1/2025, the following Cancellation, Rescheduling & Program Policies apply to Mote Virtual Focus Trips.

About This Provider

Mote Marine Laboratory

Sarasota, FL
United States

Experience the wonders of the ocean from the comfort of your own classroom or home with Mote Marine Laboratory's Virtual Focus Trips! As a world-class, AZA-accredited nonprofit marine research institution, we bring the excitement of authentic research and hands-on learning to you. From chatting with a shark trainer in the stunning new Mote Science Education Aquarium, to exploring the Florida Keys and observing coral reefs like a real scientist, our virtual lessons are designed to engage and inspire your students. Aligned with state and national education standards, our lessons range from 30 to 60 minutes and provide a unique and thrilling way to dive into STEM topics. Join us on a virtual learning journey and unlock the mysteries of the ocean!

Contact:
Jason Robertshaw
marven@mote.org
(941) 388-2904

Program Details

Format

Introduction and Prior Knowledge: The program opens with an introduction to the selected marine science topic and our expert speaker. Participants are invited to share their prior knowledge and specific interests, setting the stage for a deep dive into Mote’s cutting-edge ocean research.
Segment 1 - The Research Question: Participants are introduced to a real-world scientific challenge or inquiry, such as tracking harmful algal blooms or uncovering bioactive compounds for medicine, to understand the critical role of hypothesis-driven research.
Segment 2 - What Our Scientists Are Doing: Learners virtually explore the research areas where Mote professionals work. Using captivating multimedia and data-driven examples, we showcase the specific tools, innovative technology, and global conservation efforts used by scientists to address the topic at hand.
Segment 3 - Impact and Discovery: We explore how these scientific findings impact ocean health and human communities. This segment highlights the significance of Mote’s discoveries and how they contribute to the sustainable use of our oceans on a global scale.
Live Q&A and Reflection: The session concludes with a dedicated live Q&A period and guided reflection, allowing participants to engage directly with experts to reinforce key concepts and explore personal areas of curiosity.

Objectives

The participants will:

Identify the critical scientific inquiries and global conservation challenges addressed by Mote Marine Laboratory to understand the role of independent research in protecting ocean health.
Explore the practical application of cutting-edge technology and data-driven methods, such as autonomous underwater vehicles or bioactive compound analysis, used by scientists to monitor and restore marine ecosystems.
Analyze the connection between advanced STEM research and its real-world impact on human health, environmental sustainability, and the management of vulnerable species.
Engage in a professional dialogue with marine science experts to evaluate current scientific findings, discuss emerging ocean trends, and explore the future of marine discovery.

Standards Alignment

National Standards

For a complete list of Common Core, Next Generation Science Standards, and Florida standards, please visit the For Educators section for your Mote Science Talk program:

Mote Science Talk Resources