Mote recognized for top-notch digital learning program
Mote Marine Laboratory’s digital learning program, SeaTrek.TV Interactive, earned the highest award in educational, interactive videoconferencing, the Pinnacle Award, for the 2015-2016 school year from the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC).
The Pinnacle Award is given annually by the CILC to organizations that receive outstanding scores on program evaluations submitted by educators. The award recognizes remarkable quality of educational content and exceptional skill at program delivery.
SeaTrek.TV brings Mote's research, animals and exhibits to classroom learners using affordable, easy-to-use distance learning technology. These virtual field trips are an exciting way to engage learners with STEM topics. Dive into Mote Aquarium and chat with a shark specialist. Or explore the Florida Keys and make observations like a real coral reef scientist.
“We are beyond thankful to receive the 2015-2016 Pinnacle Award from CILC,” said Kasey Gaylord-Opalewski, Mote’s Senior Coordinator of Digital Programs and co-creator of SeaTrek.TV. “At Mote, we strive to engage students and teachers in fun, exciting marine life education with the goal of inspiring marine stewardship and this award means so much to us. We look forward to engaging the next generation of marine scientists next year with our interactive programming.”
To qualify for a Pinnacle Award, the provider must receive at least 2.85 average out of 3.0 on all their program evaluations during the school year. The program evaluation assesses if the presenter is knowledgeable about the content and engages well with the audience, and if the program was engaging, appropriate for the advertised age/grade range, aligned to the advertised educational standards, met the advertised educational objectives and if it had an impact on student learning.
SeaTrek.TV has received great reviews from teachers. One middle school teacher said, “It was the best experience we've had with our video system! Definitely the type of lesson that it would have been difficult to do on our own, and better than a video because of the interactive nature of the video system.”
Another teacher said, “Thank you so much for scheduling this session! It was absolutely amazing! My students learned so much and were engaged throughout the entire presentation. Kasey was excited about the information she was presenting and, in turn, excited us! At the end of our session, my students were saying, 'This was our best Skype ever!,"
SeaTrek.TV has received seven Pinnacle Awards and two honorable mentions since the award’s start in 2007.
- Click here to learn more about Mote’s SeaTrek.TV programs.
About CILC
The Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC), established in 1994, specializes in the access to applications and the utilization of videoconferencing for live interactive content and professional development, as well as web-based collaborative learning environments for lifelong learning. CILC provides consulting expertise in videoconferencing, integration, problem-based learning projects, and effective techniques for the delivery and development of quality programs. Visit www.cilc.org to explore the various providers of content and diversity of programs and trainings available.
CILC serves as a program to the South Central Service Cooperative, an Education Service Agency with its headquarters in southern Minnesota.