Environmental education and technology: using a remotely operated vehicle to connect with nature

Abstract

One hundred seven young people (12-14 years old) and 183 adults (25-86 years old) used an underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to explore shipwrecks and marine habitats in the Great Lakes and various inland lakes during the summer of 2005. Content analysis of responses regarding the types of impact the ROV had on their perception and experience with the natural environment revealed various positive perceptions. Positive impacts expressed included increased accessibility to marine environments, opportunities for experiential education, and ease of using the ROV. Although less frequently noted, negative impacts were also expressed, primarily focusing on the potential for environmental disturbance. However, the disturbances noted were relative to the boat in which the ROV was used rather than the ROV itself.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the 2006 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium

Citation

Gleason, Mark; Harmon, Laurie; Boakye-Agyei, Kwame. 2007. Environmental education and technology: using a remotely operated vehicle to connect with nature. In: Burns, R.; Robinson, K., comps. Proceedings of the 2006 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium; 2006 April 9-11; Bolton Landing, NY. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-14. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 518-522.