Intensive aquaculture of oysters (Crassostrea virginica) in the Gulf of Mexico region represents a new industry sector with development occurring in the past decade. In Florida, over 170 growers operate on 284 leases, a 21% increase in the past two years. Interest in oyster culture continues to increase in other Gulf states. With in-person classes restricted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a virtual format was considered to provide educational opportunities for beginning growers and those interested in the prospects of oyster culture in the region.
To gauge interest, a survey was sent to 50 new growers in which all (response rate of 36%) indicated they would be interested in participating in an online course, thought 15 to 30-minute presentations would be adequate, and had an internet connected device. The course was created using the Teachable platform, which provides custom domains, creates web pages, hosts content and videos, allows students to auto- matically register , and monitors student activities via a dashboard .
Launched in June 2021, the course format, which consists of four virtual sessions, follows the sequence of starting a farm to growing and harvesting a crop of oysters. Twenty-three instructors from universi-ties, industry associations, gear manufac-turers and suppliers, and federal and state agencies collaborated to provide 39 presentations with videos and resource materials. To increase the learning experi-ence, a discussion section follows each session . Within t he first five months, 260 students had enrolled in the course.
Results of a follow-up survey to evaluate the usefulness of the course, determine knowledge gained, and assess other educational needs will be presented. To view or enroll in the course, which is free, go t o https://oyster-culture.teachable.com.