Investigating the Challenges and Effectiveness of Implementing Online Marine Environmental Education in Laamu Atoll, Maldives

2024

Ellie Millington (MSc - University of Exeter)

Summary: Marine environmental education in the Maldives faces logistical challenges, particularly in remote areas like Laamu Atoll. This study explored the use of online synchronous learning as an alternative method for delivering such education. Interviews with 23 teachers from eight schools identified logistical, educational, and attitudinal barriers to implementing the online classes. Additionally, questionnaires completed by 32 students, aged 11-12, assessed the class's impact. While students showed improved environmental knowledge and high satisfaction, there was no significant change in pro-environmental attitudes. Despite challenges, the study suggests online learning can successfully deliver education in geographically isolated areas.

Abstract

“Teaching school children via online synchronous learning provides an alternative approach for nongovernmental organisations, like The Manta Trust, to deliver environmental education that can overcome logistical barriers to traditional face-to-face education. This study first interviewed twenty-three teachers from eight schools in Laamu Atoll, Maldives, to investigate the challenges of implementing online synchronous marine environmental education in their remotely situated schools. Thereafter, "before and after" questionnaires were used on thirty-two students aged eleven to twelve from two schools in Laamu Atoll to explore the effectiveness of an online synchronous marine environmental education class. From interviews with teachers, the thematic analysis identified logistical, educational and attitudinal barriers to implementing the class. Results from the questionnaires suggested that while the class may have assisted respondents with improving their environmental knowledge, it was not found to be linked to improvements in pro-environmental attitudes. The class also achieved very high levels of student satisfaction. Overall, this study implies that while barriers exist to implementing online synchronous marine environmental education classes in Laamu Atoll, the approach is deliverable and likely achieves some teaching success within the geographically isolated schools tested.”

Author Affiliations

  • University of Exeter

  • The Manta Trust