1) What information tools & technologies did you used to complete your CyberFair project?
Three computer labs, Sony Mavica digital cameras, video recorders, and web design software using html or Dreamweaver v.3, FireWorks v.3, and Claris HomePage v.3, were integral to the web project. Some photographs were taken with 35mm cameras and developed and scanned with an Apple OneScanner. Students became the experts in a special phase of the experience becoming artists, interviewers, photographers, and web designers.
The Chester County Historical Society allowed students to to independent research, find maps, and explore the archives. Our school library purchased books and materials to have on hand.
Most of the hardware and software was purchased with building and district funds. The Unionville-Chadds Ford Education Foundation funded the Sony Mavica.
The most valuable tools were the digital camera and the use of the libraries. The library provided the actual information linking students to the past histories, while the digital camera provided the connection to today, showing how these historical locations have been preserved. The most unique way students used these technologies was to make a QuickTime VR of the inside of the Marlborough Friends Meeting House. This QTVR is special, because not many people have seen the inside of a Meeting House except for the worshipers who attend weekly.
2) In what ways did you act as "ambassadors" and spokespersons for your CyberFair project both on-line and in person.
The student ambassadors learned so much in their contact with community members and e-mails from other schools. The rich history that was being lost is preserved now on our school web site. The people who worked with the students were amazed at the students' abilties and the new technology that was being utilized to preserve their community.
3) What has been the impact of your project on your community?
The history project received great press from local papers. When the web address was published, we received comments from the community, local historical commissions, and long-time members. We forged lasting ties with long-time community members who have offered to work again with students in the coming years.
4) How did your project involve other members of your community as helpers and volunteers?
For all the community members, who so graciously worked with us, we are deeply thankful. A complete list is enclosed here: http://cfpms.ucf.k12.pa.us/uhistory/biblio/bib2.html
5) Discoveries, Lessons and Surprises (Optional)
The biggest surprise was that one of our teachers actually learned that her husband's family occupied an Underground Railroad site! This has led to more students probing into the background of the home in which they live, and the land where it sits.
This whole concept came from Mrs. Basilio and Miss Tate’s attendance at a conference last year in which they saw and example of another school who was doing something similar. When they brainstormed with the students on the team, the kids were very excited to create their own “museum” of history.
The teachers have been interviewed by local newspapers and the district newsletter. Several technology publications have featured the Unionville History Project including Classroom Connect. We will apply to present this project at the National Middle School Conference in 2002 and the School Leadership Conference in Hershey PA. in April, 2001.
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