Universally Accessible Marine Science and Ocean Literacy for All Citizens: The Thalassophile Project

Abstract

The Thalassophile Project is dedicated to universal accessibility in marine science and ocean literacy, with a focus on the d/Deaf and visually impaired communities. By emphasising accessibility, and illustrating how theory is put into practice, the project brings together a network of cross-sector practitioners, combining marine research, education, and universal accessibility expertise. In this way, the authors propose to foster global awareness of marine sustainability put forward in the Sustainable Development Goals targets. Equally, the Thalassophile Project aims to raise awareness within adult education institutions of the significant number of citizens unable to gain access to information, and a corresponding lack of experience and competence in adult educators in producing barrier-free “Blue Education” resources. The project’s practical initiatives address this gap in educational resources by intertwining SDGs 4, 13, and 14 and aligning with international frameworks such as ESD 2030 and UNESCO guidelines. Activities include creating introductory “episodes” as educational tools, an online resource database, and user-friendly factsheets for specific audiences. The theoretical Common Accessibility Framework forms a baseline for all activities, rooted in Universal Design for Learning. These first pilot activities aim to show how more equitable access for adult learners to high-quality information on ocean sciences and literacy can be effectively achieved and at the same time, inspire and empower people and communities to join forces in making this goal a reality. Finally, this chapter describes outreach efforts, including presentations at international conferences.