University of Virginia Library

Oceanic Center

The School of Education will offer a
course for public school teachers entitled
"Teaching the World Ocean" during its
summer session this year.

Palen Flagler, president of the Oceanic
educational Foundation, expressed hope
for eventual "degrees in humanistic
oceanic education and studies to
complement science-resource-research
studies in oceanography."

"I foresee creation of a center of
Oceanic Advancement on the Grounds of
the University which would bring scholars
together in a multidisciplinary pursuit of
the potential of the oceans toward the
betterment of mankind," Mr. Flagler said.

Establishment of a professorship in
oceanic studies would constitute a major
step in developing a program in the
humanities of the sea, President Shannon
noted.

"It is increasingly apparent," he
stated," that all levels of teaching must
afford expanded opportunities for
students to gain knowledge of the
oceans."

The University already offers masters
and doctoral degrees in the field through
its Department of Marine Science in
association with the Virginia Institute of
Marine Science at Gloucester Point.

During the first semester, persons
enrolled in the pilot course in oceanic
studies included educators,
representatives from industry and
government, including the Congress, and
private citizens.