Project Assistant：CHANG,WEI-LUN

　　The 2024 Marine Career Exploration and Teaching Development School Outreach Program engaged approximately 4,200 students and teachers, surpassing participation levels from previous years. A total of 55 sessions were conducted during this program.

　　To accommodate school schedules, the center opens program applications to elementary, junior high, and senior high schools nationwide before the start of each semester. High demand for the service has led to a steady increase in the number of schools selected and sessions conducted. The program aims to expand students’ understanding of marine-related careers.

　　The outreach lecturer team comprises marine professionals, maritime and aquaculture teachers, and guidance counselors. They deliver lectures by using materials developed by the center—for example, videos, card sets, and model ships. Combining their professional expertise and experience, lecturers design activities tailored to each school’s needs. Because each lecturer has a unique teaching style and technique, the center organizes peer observation sessions to provide opportunities for mutual learning and improvement, enhancing the overall quality of outreach lectures.

　　In addition to offering student-focused sessions, the outreach program offers teacher-focused sessions, providing teachers with opportunities for professional development. Schools can apply for sessions where experienced lecturers demonstrate structured plans for introducing students to various marine career opportunities. These sessions aim to familiarize teachers with marine industry trends and pathways for further education and employment. In addition, they provide guidance on integrating local marine resources into school curricula to enhance students’ understanding of real-world applications. By empowering in-school teachers, the program seeks to promote marine career values to broader student populations.

　　The 2024 outreach program received an overwhelmingly positive response. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the marine industry, with students exploring their potential abilities and teachers discovering new areas for lesson development. As Taiwan’s marine industry continues to expand, the program aspires to inspire more students to pursue marine-related careers.