The Student Florida Education Association (SFEA) College of Education students had the privilege of receiving STEM training at Sea World on sea turtles in December.

Sea turtle skull

STEM Training in Education

STEM is a curriculum based on the idea of educating students in four specific disciplines. They are: science, technology, engineering and mathematics using an applied approach. Rather than teach the four disciplines as separate subjects, STEM integrates the four into a cohesive learning model based on real-world applications.

Sea turtles have long, streamlined shells. Depending on the species, sea turtles color range can be olive green, yellow, greenish-brown, reddish-brown, or black.  Adult male and female sea turtles are about equal in size.  Most sea turtles are 21-45 in. The largest species, the Leatherback, can reach 3.9-6.2 ft. A Leatherback turtle is covered with leathery skin, not scutes (horny plates) like other sea turtles. It is the only marine turtle whose backbone is not attached to the inside of its shell. 

Eight Species Endangered or Threatened

Despite several management measures to preserve sea turtles, their future is still in question, due to a number of natural and human-induced factors.  Exploration of taxidermied sea turtle shells exposed the man-made threats to sea turtles and their survival. These threats include poaching their eggs to the exploitation of sea turtle shell products.  In the U.S., sea turtles are hunted illegally  for meat and shells.  Shells are used to make combs, eyeglass frames, and curios.  Hurricanes can impact sea turtle nesting success. Coastal development and disturbances, like noise and activity on beaches, hinder sea turtle nesting areas.

In conclusion, SFEA students were granted behind the scenes access to the sea turtle hospital. Sea turtles are rehabilitated and  injuries treated from threats like predators and boat strikes.Injured turtle receiving care at Sea World 

College of Education students learned about sea turtles, Sea World’s efforts and made the STEM training connection. We cannot wait for next year’s trip!

For more info on SFEA please contact:   santos.wanda@spcollege.edu   OR              curtis.jessica@spcollege.edu

For information on the College of Education:  please email roper.pat@spcollege.edu or attend our Open House on Wed., February 7th @ Clearwater Campus, ES 104 from 4-7pm.

Sea World Parks & Entertainment: Saving A Species: Sea Turtle