SEA & Do Lifelong Learning Workshops

These workshops invite adult learners to explore marine science through focused in-person lessons and hands-on experiences led by Mote education professionals. Sessions combine clear, engaging instruction with practical activities that deepen understanding of species identification, animal biology, and human impacts. Each class also features insights from Mote experts whose research connects directly to the day’s topic, creating an active learning environment that supports both skill building and community connection. Fall/Winter 2026 Scales & Tales: Florida Fish Ecology / Friday, September 11⋅2:00 – 5:00pm Dive into the fascinating ecology of saltwater fish and discover the adaptations, habitats and behaviors of species found at Mote SEA. Create your own reef-inspired artwork using the traditional art of Gyotaku fish printing, then explore the aquarium on a guided tour while learning how to use iNaturalist to document fish and contribute observations to science. Aquarium admission is included. Crustacean Persuasions: Crabs, Corals, and Conservation / Friday, October 9⋅2:00 – 5:00pm Explore the remarkable diversity of Florida’s crustaceans, from familiar crabs and shrimp to their lesser-known relatives. Discover how scientists at Mote’s Florida Coral Reef Restoration Crab Hatchery Research Center are raising native crabs to support coral reef restoration. Then sharpen your observation skills with a guided natural history illustration activity featuring crustacean specimens, no artistic experience required. Aquarium admission is included. Pings & Wings: Tracking Marine Life / Friday, November 13⋅2:00 – 5:00pm How do scientists follow marine life when they disappear beneath the waves? Explore the tools and techniques researchers use to track wildlife with Mote scientist Kim Bassos-Hull, whose research follows eagle rays and their interactions with hard-shelled prey. Then get hands-on with tagging and tracking technology and discover how researchers use these tools to reveal where animals go, what they eat, and how they use their habitats. Aquarium admission is included, with time to continue exploring Mote SEA’s exhibits afterward. Words & Wildlife: Storytellers at Mote SEA / Friday, December 11⋅2:00 – 5:00pm Have you ever thought about writing a children’s book? Discover how observation, science and storytelling can transform a fascinating animal into a story that inspires curiosity. Explore Mote SEA for inspiration and begin creating your own nonfiction children’s story based on an animal or natural phenomenon that captures your attention. No writing experience is needed, just curiosity and a story you’d like to tell. Aquarium admission is included, giving you time to explore the exhibits, make observations and find your next story. Please Note: Because this is an adult lifelong learning program, only guests 18 years and older will be allowed to participate. Admission to the Aquarium is included in this program. To receive Member pricing, click the registration link and sign in using the email associated with your Membership. Once signed in, Members will be able to see member-priced tickets.