January 1, 2026
Virtual sea-going marine science fieldwork with VirtualShip
Marine science relies heavily on fieldwork at and in the ocean for data collection. Consequently, marine science students need training in sea-going fieldwork. However, such training is expensive, logistically demanding, and environmentally burdensome because research vessels emit substantial amounts of CO₂. To provide students with an opportunity to experience the realities of working at sea, we developed a platform for virtual oceanic fieldwork: the VirtualShip Classroom, which provides Python code, exercises, and 360 videos as virtual reality (VR) covering different aspects of fieldwork such as expedition planning, sampling, and data analysis. Whenever possible, students work with authentic tools and realistic datasets, such as the Marine Facilities Planning platform for designing research expeditions. Basic programming skills are advantageous, particularly when students analyze self-collected data. Students formulate their own research question in a region of the global ocean of their choice. They then investigate this question with a virtual research vessel operated through the bespoke VirtualShip software. Instruments currently implemented for deployment or onboard use are ADCP, CTD, XBT, Argo floats, surface drifters, and underway temperature and salinity sensors. This collection of teaching materials is accompanied by a suggested workflow, which outlines a series of classes on virtual ocean research.