Convinced that the importance of the ocean for humanity required sharing its knowledge with the greatest number of people, Prince Albert I based the vocation of the Oceanographic Institute on the transmission of knowledge.
Although the methods used have changed considerably since the Institute was founded, innovation has always been at the service of knowledge sharing: photographic chambers and the world’s first on-board cameras on the expeditions of Prince Albert I, the dissemination of underwater images to the mass media during the time of Captain Cousteau (then director of the Oceanographic Museum), and the use of new technologies since the advent of H.S.H. Prince Albert II…
Distributing knowledge as a driving force for action
” My great-great-grandfather, Prince Albert I, was one of the first to understand the fundamental role of science in the construction of any ambitious action . One hundred years after him, I too am trying to support the scientists and laboratories that will enable us to act effectively for the oceans. “(H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco).
The Institute has excelled in this mission of making knowledge available and disseminating it for over a century through its various resources and skills: documentary collections, expert conferences, participation in research and scientific work, etc. have made this foundation a reference in the field.
Passing on knowledge is a constant in the history of the Institute of Oceanography: it is indeed, after the awareness and wonder stage, an essential step to encourage action. For commitment can only be sustained on the basis of an indisputable, scientifically proven reality: any action – be it individual, collective or public – should be based on established facts and desired effects to justify its use.
Varied and complementary tools
Getting different sections of the public involved in issues concerning the ocean, whether it is the general public, economic stakeholders, institutions, political bodies, associations or other categories, requires the use of different but complementary tools, in order to meet the expectations and requirements of each category: professional symposia for experts and institutions, appealing conferences with a wide range of famous names for the general public, high-level seminars or meetings for decision-makers, targeted and relevant information for the economic sphere, etc.
Innovation devoted to the ocean
At the Institute of Oceanography, all the means of transmitting scientific knowledge to these different components of our society are now accompanied by a fundamental reflection on the current and future uses and added value of all the digital tools and devices: beyond an Internet platform and interactions with social networks, we are questioning emerging technologies on their potential contributions to our missions: artificial intelligence, blockchain, participatory and citizen sciences, hackathons… are all subjects that will shake up our methods of interaction with our audiences.
In keeping with its heritage of innovation, the Institute of Oceanography intends to be at the forefront of these new tools for disseminating knowledge and mobilizing citizens.
