GEORGE has launched an open online training platform for autonomous marine observation technologies.
The platform is delivered as a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) and was developed by GEORGE partner University of Helsinki, using learning materials contributed by experts from across the GEORGE consortium. It is free of charge and open to all, with particular relevance for technicians, engineers, scientists and students interested in autonomous marine observations.
The online course enables learners to study at their own pace and extends the knowledge developed through GEORGE well beyond the participants of the face-to-face sessions. It is designed both for newcomers to ocean observation and for professionals seeking more detailed technical information.
The learning materials are organised into four chapters:
• Introduction to Ocean Carbon Cycle & Ocean Observation Technologies – an introduction to the ocean carbon cycle and the fundamentals of ocean observing.
• Platforms – an overview of commonly used ocean observation platforms, including how and when they are used.
• Sensors – an introduction to sensor technologies for measuring key ocean carbon parameters, including pCO₂, pH, total alkalinity (TA) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC).
• Data management – an overview of how marine observational data are produced, processed, stored and made accessible within major European Research Infrastructures.
The course combines text with photographs, illustrations, figures, demonstration videos and optional interactive exercises. Some materials provide detailed, practical instruction in the use of specific technologies, helping learners understand not only the scientific principles behind the instruments but also how they are set up and operated.