What was louis agassiz's goal in founding the first marine laboratory in the united states?

Louis Agassiz established the first marine biology laboratory in the United States in order to help teachers at different levels to better capable themselves to teach natural history. He considered that learning from observations and first-hand analysis was perilous in attaining knowledge.  

The laboratory was established in 1873 and was situated in Penikese Island that was situated just off the coast of Massachusetts. The school was called the Anderson Summer School of Natural History.