Our Team Research Educators
Jess Kusher, M.S.
Jess is a quantitive marine ecologist whose research focuses on understanding the impact of marine physical processes on biota in the system. After receiving her M.S. in Marine Biology at the College of Charleston, studying the movement of carbon and proliferation of algae in an urban estuary, Jess served as an Ocean Science and Technology Advisor in the Office of the Assistant Administrator for NOAA Research. In addition to experience sharing her research with the public at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, Jess has taught undergraduate and graduate level laboratories in oceanography, marine ecology, and introductory biology. Before her deep-dive into marine science, Jess used her biology and film degrees as the educational director of a community science museum; served through AmeriCorps; and even studied as a Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician during the Covid-19 Pandemic. As her first foray into science was through outdoor experiential education, in her free time Jess is often found giving impromptu marine science lectures to unsuspecting tourists or kneeling in a tide pool.
An Eye for Best-Practices in Experiential Education
As a teacher trained in Experiential Education, Jess brings hands-on learning to students in the classroom and an eye for engaged learning practices in her role on the Board of Directors for the Byssal Marine Science Institute.
Hands-On Learning
Experiential Education emphasizes student engagement through hands-on problem-solving and, “Learning-by-doing,” often in outdoor or field conditions.
Reflections & Connections
In Experiential Education students are asked to make connections by reflecting on how the lesson has built on their skills and knowledge outside of the immediate lesson objective
Leadership & Confidence
By building on their skills and being allowed to make inferences based on past learning, students in Experiential Education build confidence and leadership skills.
Jazzed about Experiential Marine Science Education?
Engage with our community of educators and scientists at an upcoming class, event, or virtual meet-up.