USF sign language interpreting students make marine science accessible at Remake Learning Days

• April 28, 2026
• College News, Communication Sciences and Disorders

As part of Suncoast Remake Learning Days, the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders supported a unique community event hosted by Mote Science Education Aquarium and the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus by providing sign language interpreting services for "Ocean Odyssey."

The "Ocean Odyssey" program engaged elementary and middle school students in hands-on exploration of marine life along the Tampa-Sarasota coast by collecting and analyzing real samples from coastal waters. Participants then used lab techniques for data collection and practiced practiced microscopy skills. Approximately 100 participants rotated through three aquatic-themed activity stations during the three-hour event.

The inclusion of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting provided by CSD's ASL Interpreting program was a highlight of this year's event, creating an accessible environment for Deaf and hard-of-hearing participants. This collaboration also offered a valuable experiential learning opportunity for the sign language interpreting students to apply their interpreting skills outside the classroom with the support of Samantha Thomas, senior instructor in CSD, who helped prepare the student interpreters for their roles.

"While some of these children may grow up to become marine biologists, others might be inspired to become interpreters or at least learn more about ASL and the Deaf community," said Victoria Ramirez, College of Arts and Sciences laboratory manager for the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus.

Remake Learning Days is an international celebration of innovative experiences and opportunities for youth to develop their sense of creativity, perseverance and curiosity. This year marked the fifth year of events held in the Suncoast region of Florida, including Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties.