Marine biologists work in large collaborative teams, often on global issues such as climate change and fisheries. However, practical marine biology training for tertiary students is often localised, with limited opportunities for students to interact with peers outside class. Developing global awareness, ocean literacy, and transferable communication skills is important for effective student learning in marine biology. Using a Design-Based Research approach, we are building a common curriculum designed by researchers, educators and learning designers to connect students studying marine biology in different parts of the world. Our activities teach foundational skills in intertidal rocky shore species observation and identification and require students to communicate their knowledge through videos produced for an international audience of peers. Students then view videos produced by other cohorts and reflect on how aspects of the marine environment vary in different parts of the world. We share here outcomes, including student perceptions and responses, from the first implementation at the University of Melbourne and highlight how student feedback will be incorporated into our process of evaluation, reflection and redesign. We also explore ways to make the concept scalable and inclusive for more institutions and learning contexts.