John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
On a sunny September afternoon, Julianne Park, an undergraduate from Stanford University, was among the students exploring Monterey Bay aboard the historic Western Flyer. This 88-year-old fishing vessel once carried John Steinbeck and marine biologist Ed Ricketts to the Sea of Cortez in 1940, inspiring Steinbeck's non-fiction work "The Log from the Sea of Cortez." Now restored by the Western Flyer Foundation, it serves as a floating classroom for students to study marine environments.
Christopher Francis, professor of Earth system science at Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability, explained that their course aims to deepen students' appreciation for ocean studies. He said, “The goal is for the students to gain a deeper appreciation for the ocean and some of the ways you can study it.” Co-instructor William Gilly emphasized bridging gaps between science and humanities: “I don’t think science students read enough literature, and I don’t think humanities students know enough science.”
The course immerses students in Monterey Bay's ecological and cultural history. Based at Hopkins Marine Station in Pacific Grove, they embark on field trips using tools like remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and sensors while studying writings by local authors such as Steinbeck.
Francis hopes this experience alters student perspectives: “My hope is that the students start to look at the world a little bit differently.” He encourages viewing life microscopically; over a million microbes inhabit just one teaspoon of seawater.
Gilly noted that observing nature without instruments offers valuable reflection time. On Oceans 10SC's final day, student projects varied widely—from video games to illustrated tours. Francis praised their creativity: “We really couldn’t predict what students would gravitate towards, but they all did an amazing job.”
Weston Keller captured photos throughout this journey—few clear images remain from Steinbeck’s voyage—allowing him thoughtful documentation opportunities. His project combined readings with footage taken during class sessions aboard Western Flyer—a tribute honoring both historical exploration spirit alongside modern student experiences today.
Looking ahead into spring semester courses include further studies regarding oceanography ecology cultural significance Gulf California Baja Sur Mexico regions lasting impact remains evident amongst those involved particularly Keller whose passion scientific inquiry now interwoven creative compassionate approach: “We started seeing world new ways,” he remarked earlier January noting potential overlap between artistry empirical investigation asking ourselves where art science converge need feel surroundings cherish interconnectedness larger whole."
This educational initiative illustrates how hands-on learning experiences foster deeper understanding connections among participants across disciplines shaping future generations environmental stewards leaders alike.
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