Erin Sio takes a Deep Dive into Shark Research

“Sharks are terribly misunderstood,” said Erin Sio, “and the media exacerbates their negative image by dramatizing incidents involving sharks at beaches.”

“As apex predators, sharks are critical to the balance of all marine ecosystems,” she said. This summer, Erin engaged in a unique professional development opportunity aboard the research vessel “Garvin” off the coast of Miami, Florida. She returns to the classroom with a wealth of knowledge and a new perspective.

“Introduction to Shark Research Skills,” is a week-long program hosted by The Field School. Erin lived on the vessel “Garvin,” where she attended lectures onboard and traveled from the marina into the surrounding area to catch sharks and collect data in the field.

Erin and her colleagues had a high level of hands-on involvement in the research process, playing a key role in measuring and testing the shark once it was caught. They also learned the methods of safe handling during these tasks to limit damage or stress on the animal.

Back in the classroom this fall, Erin has been applying what she has learned from the teachings of the program to her Marine Biology class. The final week of her course will be “Shark Week!” Inspired by her first-hand experience, students will learn about the misconceptions of sharks in the media and gain a deeper understanding of their physiology and role in the marine ecosystem.

Erin hopes to encourage students to participate in similar programming once they are eligible.

“Being able to touch the critically endangered great hammerhead shark was a once in a lifetime experience,” she said.

I would not have been able to do it were it not for the access to professional development funds at George School.” Erin said. “We can’t really be great teachers if we are not continuous learners.”