Cosplay as a Novel Method for Outreach in Ocean Science

• DOI: 10.5334/cjme.80
• Publication Date: 2023-10-03T12:14:13Z
• Authors: Mark Patterson; Susan Patterson; Ethan Edson; Sara Williams; Jessica Torossian; Amanda Dwyer
• Keywords: Outreach; Popularity; Anime

We present our experience using cosplay to engage attendees on the topic of microplastics pollution at world’s largest Comic-Con convention, held annually in San Diego, California, USA. Cosplay is an activity that has gained popularity last two decades. Cosplayers wear costumes and fashion accessories, usually representing specific characters from comic books, manga, anime, or superhero franchises. Cosplayer conventions are often large events. For example, International > 150,000 over a several-day period, provides platform for outreach. Our accessories were mix science (coral polyp costume; sampling device ‘sword’), fantasy (Amphitrite with bracelets hair made plastic debris). found novelty factor not part traditional pantheon characters, was captivating way convention attendees. During 6-hour period Exhibit Hall, we dispersed 240 flyers information problem laboratory’s efforts develop sensing solutions. Engagement lasted 1–8 minutes length, 1–9 time. All engaged took proffered flyer after interaction. With low barrier entry, ability reach numbers people, propose as novel method marine education can be used by student groups, non-governmental organizations, university researchers, citizen scientists educate public about pressing problems facing oceans proposed