When one hears the term “quilt”, one visualizes stitched layers of fabric used as an object of comfort, warmth, and decoration. Yet some quilts are specifically generated for science communication, education, and outreach. While quilting is historically known as a predominantly solo activity in the fiber arts, the practice of collaborative quilting is increasing across audiences of varying ages and skill levels. This points to the potential for quilts constructed by groups of people, versus individuals, to be shared across a wider audience. Participants are able to share the story of quilt construction as well as the story behind the quilt. Ocean-themed quilts shared in the present as well as handed down through generations can represent stories to improve the oceanographic content knowledge of those that interact with the quilts. This activity of quilt dissemination aligns with the goals of Ocean Decade Challenge 10 by using storytelling and artistic expression to communicate Ocean science and broaden public engagement with Ocean research. This chapter provides examples of quilts generated collaboratively by scientists and by university students, the outcomes of the quilting activities, and how to carry out a similar effort to improve Ocean Literacy of non-scientists. Questions still remain about the measured effectiveness of an increased understanding and long-term retention of Ocean science communicated via quilts.

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Expanding Ocean Literacy with Storytelling Through Collaborative Quilts

  • Laura Guertin

摘要

When one hears the term “quilt”, one visualizes stitched layers of fabric used as an object of comfort, warmth, and decoration. Yet some quilts are specifically generated for science communication, education, and outreach. While quilting is historically known as a predominantly solo activity in the fiber arts, the practice of collaborative quilting is increasing across audiences of varying ages and skill levels. This points to the potential for quilts constructed by groups of people, versus individuals, to be shared across a wider audience. Participants are able to share the story of quilt construction as well as the story behind the quilt. Ocean-themed quilts shared in the present as well as handed down through generations can represent stories to improve the oceanographic content knowledge of those that interact with the quilts. This activity of quilt dissemination aligns with the goals of Ocean Decade Challenge 10 by using storytelling and artistic expression to communicate Ocean science and broaden public engagement with Ocean research. This chapter provides examples of quilts generated collaboratively by scientists and by university students, the outcomes of the quilting activities, and how to carry out a similar effort to improve Ocean Literacy of non-scientists. Questions still remain about the measured effectiveness of an increased understanding and long-term retention of Ocean science communicated via quilts.