An interdisciplinary field course in marine and atmospheric systems

The Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) Department of Marine and Environmental Systems (DMES) offers an interdisciplinary Field Projects course each summer for students entering their senior year. The Field Projects provide students with hands-on experience with scientific data collection and hypothesis testing. The program emphasizes principles of quality assurance, teamwork, planning, leadership, peer review and oral and written communication skills.

The Summer 2005 Field Projects featured 1) atmospheric and water quality monitoring, 2) submerged aquatic vegetation investigations, 3) sea breeze meteorology, and 4) beach profiling for students in oceanography, environmental science, and meteorology. Students in ocean engineering were tasked with the design, construction, and testing of ocean engineering projects. Students also plan and participate in a 4-day research cruise investigating processes off the east coast of Florida. Student research projects are showcased at the end of the program in a special symposium.