From Seafloor to Classroom: Exploring Submarine Volcanism and Hazards

Submarine volcanic eruptions are among the least visible, yet very frequently occurring natural hazards, which makes them particularly challenging to address in school. With the WAVES project, we have developed an interactive outreach tool that combines a physical 3D model with a digital story map to support teaching about underwater volcanism, natural hazards, and Earth system processes.

The tool is based on Kolumbo volcano in the Aegean Sea, which is one of the most active submarine volcanoes in Europe. This Aegean Sea region has experienced more than 100 explosive eruptions over the past 650,000 years. Santorini, just 8km southwest of Kolumbo is a major tourist destination visited by millions of people each year. Kolumbo therefore provides a compelling real-world case study to discuss volcanic hazards, risk awareness, and the societal relevance of geoscience research in coastal and marine settings.

Designed for both classroom and outreach contexts, the 3D model and accompanying story map in five languages introduce key geoscience concepts in an intuitive and visual manner. These include seafloor mapping using multibeam bathymetry, geophysical monitoring of active volcanoes, sampling techniques at submarine volcanic sites, and the identification and assessment of volcanic hazards. The tools allow teachers to illustrate how scientists investigate submarine environments and monitor geological processes that are otherwise hidden beneath the ocean surface.

The poster presentation is accompanied by a physical 3D model of Kolumbo volcano composed of four detachable blocks. These can be taken apart to reveal the internal structure of the volcano, as inferred from geophysical data, and to facilitate hands-on discussion of volcanic architecture and processes. In parallel, the digital story map presents the scientific background in an accessible and engaging format, using photographs, sketches, animations, and explanatory text.

Together, the 3D model and story map aim to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and awareness of natural hazards among students, while providing teachers with physical and adaptable teaching materials. The story map is available in several languages, facilitating its use in diverse educational settings and supporting the integration of marine geosciences into Earth science education. The teaching materials have been used with great success with school classes at secondary level, for teacher training and at open days for the public.