Eavesdropping on Marine Mammal Conversations: An Activity Suitable for the Visually Impaired

Abstract

Ever wonder how marine mammals communicate with each other in an expansive dark ocean? Most of their communication is through the sense of sound, and their vocalizations can travel great distances in the ocean. However, human-generated noise pollution can interfere with their communication. This student activity provides information about dolphin and whale species and examples of their vocalizations. It is engaging for all students, including those with visual impairment, as the lesson is auditory. We anticipate that the provided information will spark further interest in marine mammals and help develop a better awareness of interactions between organisms and their environment. The activity conforms to Next Generation Science Standards, National Science Standards, and includes Ocean Literacy Principles.

Keywords

• marine mammals
• cetaceans
• dolphins
• whales
• vocalization
• communication
• sound
• noise pollution
• visually impaired
• blind