Hands-on learning in nature is transformative and has positive outcomes on student knowledge and long-term engagement with science. Abstract concepts are brought to life in the field because the natural world stimulates students’ curiosity, encourages active participation, and builds team camaraderie. Despite their proven benefits, opportunities for fieldwork in undergraduate biology education are waning. To what extent can virtual field experiences help fill this gap?

The overarching goal of this network is to Diversify and Integrate Marine Education at Stations (DIMES). The DIMES network will create a unified undergraduate curriculum that documents change in marine biodiversity and expands the reach and impact of marine stations to a broader student audience. 

The initial incubator year started the process of developing partnerships, as well as the core curriculum, with an explicit focus on maximizing access to undergraduate students from different backgrounds. In particular, the COVID-19 pandemic provided an opportunity to develop virtual field experiences for students who may never have shore access.