| The impact of technology within natural resources education programs is a pertinent topic for land managers and educators. This study researched the impacts of technology on public education using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), an underwater robot, in a variety of environmental education programs that had participants from a wide range of backgrounds and ages. Participants from age 12 to 86 were allowed to either observe or operate an ROV in connection with an Aquatic Environmental Education program. This study was conducted with partners in the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and several non-profit environmental organizations. Of approximately 3,000 participants from these educational programs, 324 individuals completed questionnaires that were analyzed. The instrument included quantitative and qualitative questions. Questionnaire results indicated that most participants had a very positive view towards the use of underwater ROV technology to increase their understanding of the underwater natural resources connected with our public lands. |
