The unconventional learning experience of students: Becoming a courier of marine stewardship

This chapter is to, through an unconventional field-based and service-based education programme for undergraduates studying in the Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), determine whether self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (scuba) diving in association with relevant training on marine conservation is an effective teaching intervention for environmental education. The aim of this programme was to promote participants’ action competence in marine conservation and protection. A team of seven undergraduate students, enrolled in the programme entitled Courier of Marine Stewardship at the EdUHK (Courier MS EdU), were trained with knowledge about marine conservation and protection, and basic skills in undertaking an underwater ecological study. Upon completion of their training, the team transferred their knowledge and experiences through educational talk to local pupils and participated in community services of Reef Check Hong Kong 2015 and seabed cleanup. Based on a post-programme interview of the team members, this programme was found to have enhanced participants’ acquisition of solid knowledge and positive values through first-hand unconventional learning experience, which in turn strengthen their action competence in conserving and protecting the ocean. The difficulties in organizing such unconventional programme included financial and logistic constraints, risks associated with diving, and leisurely expectation of the students which hindered the cognitive and attitudinal outcomes of this field-based activity. Copyright © 2017 Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.