We believe that students learn science by doing science. GMRI brings 5th or 6th grade classrooms from every county in Maine to our marine research lab in Portland for a LabVenture! science experience. Students eagerly take on the role of scientists to conduct their own hands-on research about the Gulf of Maine at a series of multimedia-enabled lab stations. This immersive experience helps students develop the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind to engage with environmental and technology challenges and think critically about new ideas.

Since the program's launch in 2006, an average of 10,000 students have come to our lab each year. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, we offer LabVenture! at no charge and provide schools from across the state with free transportation. Marine-themed coach buses can be seen traveling to every county in Maine to bring students to our lab. Every day, our building is filled with the sounds of excited young scientists.

This is my third year to visit and we are always very impressed with the technology involved and how engaged our students become in LabVenture!. All types of students, no matter what their abilities or limitations, always love the hands-on scientific involvement that GMRI provides. - Teacher

Our current topic, Lobster: Untold Tales, puts students in the driver's seat to unravel the science mysteries surrounding Maine's most iconic species. Students peer through microscopes at larval lobster prey, don gloves to examine live lobsters, and stare in awe at the live lobster tank as they learn about habitat. High-fives are exchanged as students haul in full traps on a virtual lobstering trip. Giggles and whispers can be heard as they plan video reports about their scientific findings. Camaraderie leads the way as students work together during a scientific conference to share their personal findings and learn from each other.

... We had a fabulous time! I learned a ton of info - not just about fish! I learned that scientists ask questions all the time ... It was a great educational and exciting experience! It was a thrill of a lifetime learning about the Gulf of Maine! ... I like how you made the stations and activities fun for us and fun for our brains! ... - Student

The LabVenture! experience:

• Respects students as contributing members of the scientific community
• Connects students to their communities in the Gulf of Maine watershed
• Gives students control of their own learning experience
• Engages students with scientific skills and concepts that are built upon with VitalVenture watershed experiences and Vital Signs field investigations

To learn more about the LabVenture! program, or to schedule a visit, email the Visit Administrator or call (207) 228-1650.