Us Weekly spoke with Ross Mumford (E/M Group Education Coordinator and former fourth grade teacher) for a behind-the-scenes look at why people of all ages are still so fascinated by history’s most famous ship.
Why is it so important to you to teach? Titanic history to your fourth graders?
The story of Titanic is something that is completely intergenerational and touches on so many different topics – whether you are fascinated by engineering or mathematics, the science of building or sinking, or fascinated by personal stories and personal stories. I think in the heart of Titanic is this human connection point that can create wonderful moments for students as they take up this subject and find their own personal connection to it.
Why do you think we still connect to the Titanic so much?
I think at its core there is so much mystery and ignorance surrounding the subject Titanic. I think many of my colleagues and I will say that one question will lead to another question, will lead to another question. And I see the same thing happening in the classroom, where they just want to know more.
There is still so much we don’t know about the Titanic, and I know expeditions are coming. What do they hope to find?
These expeditions and the one coming up in July will give us the opportunity to take high-resolution images of the ocean floor and really look at what’s down there so we can make targeted recovery efforts later.
How do you get involved in the upcoming expedition?
I would always refer someone to go to our website, Expedition.DiscoverTitanic.com. There you will find information about the expedition, where you can become a member and get exclusive virtual access to the expedition, including interviews and images. I highly recommend you take a look there. If you are on social media, go to our various social media channels. We’ll provide updates and ways to get involved there for those in the class who want to take something away Titanic to your own classroom. We also have materials and curriculum on our website, and we are creating new and more materials to be released later this year.
Join the RMS Titanic, Inc. digital community. on Member.DiscoverTitanic.com. In addition to exclusive Expedition benefits, you will receive numerous member benefits. Don’t forget to visit Expedition.DiscoverTitanic.com For more information.