Mote Marine Laboratory

a CILC Content Provider

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!

2024-2025

2023-2024

2022-2023

2021-2022

2020-2021

2019-2020

2018-2019

2017-2018

2016-2017

2015-2016

2014-2015

2013-2014

2012-2013

2011-2012

Honorable Mention

2010-2011

Honorable Mention

2009-2010

2008-2009

2007-2008

Programs by Mote Marine Laboratory

EXPLORE: Estuaries

Explore Sarasota Bay live from MARVEN (Mote Aquarium Roving Virtual Estuary Navigator) as we journey over mudflats, seagrass meadows, and mangrove forests. Discover the challenges estuary animals face between the tides.

Science Talks

For 6–12+. Bring the wonders of the ocean to your audience with engaging Mote Science Talks. Our professional speakers present a captivating multimedia session on the marine science topic of your choice, featuring our cutting-edge research.

SEA Me Read - Fiction

For K–5. SEA Me Read - Fiction brings STEM storybooks to life. Smiley Shark, Clumsy Crab, Shark Baby, If a Dolphin Were a Fish, Alfie: (The Turtle That Disappeared)

SEA Me Read - Nonfiction

For K–5. SEA Me Read - Non-Fiction brings STEM storybooks to life. Next Time You See a Pill Bug, Next Time You See a Seashell, Next Time You See a Snowflake, Swimming with Sharks: The Daring Discoveries of Eugenie Clark, Otto the Otter: A Big...

STEM: Ask the Ocean

Are you a student interested in marine biology? Would you like to speak to someone about careers in marine science? Interested in learning more about Mote research programs? Book a session with our ocean experts and find out more.

Wonderful Animal Virtual Encounters (WAVE)

For 3–12+. Wonderful Animal Virtual Encounters (WAVE) bring you up close with fascinating aquarium animals like penguins, axolotls, sharks, and more.

Workforce Industry STEM Explorations (WISE)

For 9–12+. Workforce Industry STEM Explorations offer a virtual look into the careers that power modern aquarium science, conservation, and marine research at the Mote Science Education Aquarium.

Type of Organization

Science Center/Zoo

Contact

Jason Robertshaw marven@mote.org
1600 Ken Thompson Parkway
Sarasota FL 34236
(941) 388-2904
United States

https://sites.google.com/mote.org/virtualfocustrips/connect

Primary Disciplines

The programs of Mote Marine Laboratory cover:

Online Learning/Digital Learning
Online Learning/Digital Learning
Career & Technical Education (CTE)
Industrial Technology
Language Arts/English
Literacy
Problem Based Learning
Professional Development
Reading
Science
Social and Emotional Learning( SEL)
STEM
Women's History
Asian Pacific American heritage Month

Awards, Quotes, Testimonials

Reviews based on evaluations by CILC members

"Mote's model of virtual field trips would be a very useful masterclass for every organization working to create quality live virtual encounters. Graphics were thoughtfully curated and seamlessly integrated, and time was taken to geographically orient our learners from a zoomed-out view of the Earth to a ground-level view. Our presenter's video and audio quality were top-notch, balancing educational authority with genuine excitement. I can confidently praise this session as the best-planned virtual event we've had in years of experiences. This program was equally accessible to our urban and rural students, offering a shared experience around the pure joy of learning."
– MCGT CHOICES Chapter, 12/17/2025

"We loved the way they presented the content, making it interesting and kid-friendly even for someone who knows a lot about the material already! The program encouraged curiosity and expanded on our knowledge of axolotls with wonderful transitions from one topic to another. 1000% recommend and cannot say enough good things about it."
– Family member, 06/11/2025

As featured on the CILC Why Distance Learning Podcast.

Seth, Tami, and Allyson chat with Jason Robertshaw from Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium about his experiences as a virtual educator. The discussion includes a day in the life in the Studio, supporting a range of experts using tech to teach, unlikely hazards using props, distance learning history and culture. They dive into the different ways an educator can get involved in interactive virtual teaching by using their personal expertise and highlighting important content of their institution or field. Also covered are tips and tricks for working with broadcast technologies – including what to do if a raccoon drops through the ceiling right before a live program! Don’t miss this conversation that explores how interactive distance learning experiences open a door to an authentic global classroom for learners of all ages.