In this connection, there is a debate whether preservice science teachers should be taught in existing courses for majors or in courses designed to meet their special needs. In some institutions, particularly research universities, projects in education are not valued as highly as research projects. This situation acts as a barrier to the participation of many junior faculty in education and public outreach. It also inhibits the contributions of scientists at research institutions. The Ocean Sciences community does not currently reflect the diversity of our nation's population.
Many groups are underrepresented and underserved.
The Ocean Sciences are not the major that comes to the minds of many of these students, especially those who may represent the first member of the family to attend an institution of higher education. As a result, the undergraduate institutions in the Ocean Sciences must make a special, and sustained, effort to engage the interest of this population. Waves 60 to 80 feet high are being driven by winds of more than 100 knots. Photograph by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Commerce.