NOSB engages students in ocean science, preparing them for ocean science-related and other STEM careers.
About this event

The NOSB is an academic competition and program that addresses a national gap in environmental and earth sciences in public education by introducing high school students to and engaging them in ocean science, preparing them for ocean science-related and other STEM careers, and helping them become knowledgeable citizens and environmental stewards.

“Welcome to the fast-paced, fun, exciting world of National Ocean Sciences Bowl!” said Daisy Dailey, director of Educational Outreach and Sea Camp Programs at Texas A&M University at Galveston.

The Galveston campus will host the Texas Sea Grant College Program Dolphin Challenge. This regional competition of the National Ocean Sciences Bowl is slated to occur from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Feb. 1 (Saturday) in various rooms in the Classroom Laboratory Building on campus.

Sponsored by Texas A&M Sea Grant, Dolphin Challenge is the north Texas Regional competition of the National Ocean Science Bowl competitions—a nationally recognized and highly acclaimed high school academic science and technology competition.

The Dolphin Challenge is intended to increase knowledge of the oceans on the part of high school students, their teachers and parents, and to raise the visibility and public understanding of the national investment in ocean-related research.

“Texas A&M Galveston is pleased to have the resources to help support science, technology, engineering and math education,” Dailey said. “It’s important that universities partner with schools to promote student success.”

Imagine a science game show or debate forum and add the vigor and enthusiasm of high school students. Student teams have buzzers in their hands and face off against another team of enthusiastic, determined high school students. The pressure is on, when participants are quizzed about their knowledge of science.

During the event, a moderator may pose questions like: What year was the Marine Mammal Protection Act enacted? What is the approximate age of the oldest oceanic crust? How many gallons of water can an oyster filter in one day?

As the clock ticks, judges who have scientific and technical backgrounds, address responses of participating students.

To be eligible to compete, a student must be in grades nine through twelve. Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place teams. The team demonstrating the best character throughout the weekend will be presented with the Ralph Rayburn Sportsmanship Award. Rayburn was a former associate director and extension program leader at Texas Sea Grant.