Lessons from the Sea –
an AGORA Sci Comms Project
We are honoured to partner with Prof. Redouan Bshary at the University of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, to help translate his research into engaging educational STEM Materials.
The aim of this project is to illustrate the diverse examples of cooperation observed in nature, with a particular focus on coral reef species, and to describe the important strategies and mechanisms that underpin these cooperative relationships. Recognizing that cooperation is essential for human societies and a crucial element in addressing environmental challenges, like climate change and overfishing, this project offers a unique perspective into cooperation by providing a direct ‘scientist to public’ education channel.
Through a multi-media approach, this project showcases research findings and experimental studies conducted by Prof. Bshary and his colleagues on animal behaviour, while also highlighting lessons applicable to humans.
AGORA Funding Scheme – where research meets the public
Funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation, the AGORA funding scheme awards science communication grants to Swiss researchers to foster dialogue between layman audiences, society and scientists.
Prof. Redouan Bshary and
the blue streak cleaner fish
Prof. Bshary is a behavioural ecologist based at the University of Neuchatel, in the French region of Switzerland. His research focus is on cooperation, both within and between different species, and while he has worked on birds, primates (including humans) and plant-pollinator systems, his primary model system is the cleaning mutualism between the bluestreak cleaner fish (Labroides dimidiatus) and their fish clients.
Cleaner fish and their interactions with other fish have shown us that cooperation can evolve even when there’s a temptation to cheat, and that strategies like punishment and reputation can help maintain cooperative relationships. These small, yet incredible fish, have provided us with invaluable insights into cooperation.
Join us to explore the amazing world of animal team work and discover what cleaner fish can teach us about cooperation! Check out our STEM materials below
Our STEM Materials
1. Interactive e-book & Workbook
Journey into the amazing underwater world
of coral reefs and meet the bluestreak cleaner fish –
the reef’s super-smart helper!
Available in English, German, and French, this interactive PDF whisks children away on an immersive adventure to a vibrant coral reef ecosystem and unveils fascinating research on cleaner fish. From captivating field studies to intriguing lab experiments, children will learn firsthand about cooperation through the remarkable behaviour of these little cleaner fish.
But this is no ordinary children’s book! Packed with engaging interactive elements, children will not only grasp the significance of cooperation, but will also uncover amazing facts about coral reefs through exciting pop-up images and videos.
Curious to see more?
Watch the trailer
2. Cooperation Games!
Dive into a world of collaborative fun! These downloadable and printable games bring the power of cooperation to life for children through engaging and playful experiences.
Public goods fishing game
In our public goods fishing game, young learners will discover the importance of working together for a fair and sustainable harvest of renewable resources.
Cleaner fish game
Meanwhile, the cleaner fish game offers a fascinating role-playing scenario, prompting kids to explore questions of trust and collaboration: if they were a cleaner fish, would they cooperate or cheat?
3. Teaching resources: coral reefs
Lastly, home-schooling parents and teachers can enhance their curriculum with coral reef teaching resources.
This package includes a ready-to-use PowerPoint presentation with teacher notes, an engaging reading study and practical worksheets designed to test and reinforce your students’ understanding of coral reefs.
These tools are available for free here!
