Doors to Diplomacy Participants

Bao Shan Elementary School (2025 CyberFair Project ID 8783)
Taiwan, Fenyuan
Official Status: Final Project: Ready for Judging
Teacher:
Category: 4. Local Specialties

We estimate 6 student(s) from 11 to 12 will work on this entry.

Description of Our Community: BaoShan Elementary School is located in the rural town of FenYuan in the central part of Taiwan, within Changhua County. The school is surrounded by lush green rice fields, and FenYuan Township is a typical agricultural area with vast land suitable for farming. Changhua County has a large plain and an efficient irrigation system, making it known as the "Homeland of Rice" due to its high rice production. Additionally, the county is rich in various agricultural products, and many rural settlements are built around these industries, making it one of the core agricultural regions in Taiwan. In the local community, most residents engage in agriculture, with some also running small eateries that sell local specialties, such as rice dumplings. These local foods are closely tied to the area's agricultural products, allowing people to experience the unique flavors and culture of the land. As a result, BaoShan Elementary School actively develops a "Rice Food Treasure Hunt" curriculum, aimed at helping students understand the process of rice cultivation, learn about the local agricultural culture, and connect with their hometown. Through food and agriculture education and hands-on experience courses, students gain a deeper sense of identity and belonging. These courses also teach students to appreciate the land and agriculture, understand the hard work of farmers, and recognize the importance of food sources. Ultimately, the program fosters respect for nature and values related to sustainable development.

Project Description: This research project aims to help students organize and integrate the knowledge they have learned in class and further explore areas they are unclear about. Students will gather the necessary information through consulting books, online resources, and interviewing agriculture experts. The research not only covers the understanding of traditional rice-based foods from local festivals but also includes rice dishes from other countries commonly found in Taiwan. Additionally, it explores the emerging rice-based foods actively promoted by the government in recent years, such as rice cakes and rice cookies. These new rice products not only meet modern health-conscious dietary needs but also help reduce dependence on imported wheat, lower carbon footprints, and encourage the use of local ingredients, making them more environmentally friendly. In addition to classroom learning, summer camps, and school celebrations as extended learning activities, students will also take the opportunity to visit local rice noodle factories like Old Pot Rice Noodles and Kiss Rice for on-site learning. They will also interview agriculture experts in the field, such as Mayor of Fenyuan Township and Secretary General of Farmers' Association of Fenyuan Township, to gain a deeper understanding of local specialties and cultural features. This learning process not only enhances students' understanding of local culture but also gives them the opportunity to introduce their hometown’s rice dishes to a wider audience, sharing the local flavors and traditions with the world, and enhancing their sense of pride and belonging toward their hometown. Through this research project, students not only gain knowledge but also practice environmental protection and sustainable development principles, laying a solid foundation for their future life and career.

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