1) What information tools & technologies did you used to complete your Doors to Diplomacy project?
We used Many tools and technologies to complete this project. We used the internet, computer softwares, books, magazines, newpapers, telephones, camcorders, digital cameras, in-focus,and TV contacts. These tools helped us reach a diverse population. We located the tools from teachers, technology people, reporters, parents, administrators, and people in the community. Our most valuable tools were being able to interview the people from Kenya and taping and presenting and publishing their personal stories on tape.We wrote a script about orphans needs, video taped it and plan on showing it to students. We not only wrote letters to inform Mrs. Clinton about our concern, but we were able to open the doors for actual people from Kenya to speak at our school through global internet use! WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2) In what ways did you act as "ambassadors" and spokespersons for your Doors to Diplomacy project both on-line and in person.
Our team has taken up the cry of children who have had to suffer under cruel circumstances. We have become aware to the severity of the situation in parts of Africa. The depth of need in other children has inspired us to DO something. We have spoken with classmates and adults. We are seeking to contact newspapers, agencies, and government leaders. A school assembly has been planned for April. At this assembly a woman that worked with orphans in Kenya, will be speaking. We have been shocked by the suffering that has gone on as a result of civil wars and other health problems in Africa. We have decided to not only raise awareness, but to act with compassion! Mrs. L is so proud of their efforts! Please see www.teamorphanjjsp.com
3) What has been the impact of your project on your community?
This project will awaken the hearts of everyone of our contacts. We believe that our motto, 'TO KNOW IS TO CARE...TO CARE IS TO ACT', will stick in people's hearts. The people in our school, community, and all over the world will see and hear the cry of these poor children through our words, letters, articles, tv coverage, internet information, and interviews. We are building bridges with media with GOOD NEWS!!! Perhaps children who promote peace and human rights will set an example for the adults. All the feedback has been positive. Before this project, we didn't have a clue that such terrible things were going on. Now that we know, how can we remain SILENT??? We know that everyone who sees or project will feel the same.
4) How did your project involve other members of your community as helpers and volunteers?
We want to thank Secretary of State Clinton for the great job she is doing by making human rights around the world central to US foreign policy. We hope to get a response from our letters soon. Our new friend from Kenya, Julius, should know that our hearts are filled with gratitude for him sharing his story with us. Our eyes were really opened! We look forward to his return visit to share pictures and experiences from his visit to Kenya. It will be awesome to see real pictures of children. Our great thanks goes to Melissa, who works with an orphanage in Kenya. Thanks Melissa for speaking at our school and bringing a native of Kenya to share. We hope your orphanage gets the help it needs. Many thanks to all media people for caring enough to cover this story. There really is alot of GOOD NEWS in the world, especially with 6th graders! A special thanks to Mr. Tidwell, Ms. Bartolo, Mrs. Chuckran, and Melody. We could never have pushed through our tecknology issues without you! Thank you Mrs. Kirk, Mr. Swenson, and Mrs. Paolini for all your support and enthusiasm. You have kept the fire alive for keeping learning a life long passion with the purpose of impacting the world! We have received so much help from our parents and people in the community.We have realized that everyone cares. THANKS TO ALL!
5) Discoveries, Lessons and Surprises (Optional)
We have discovered that it is possible to make a difference. It all started with learning about a horrible situation. Then, we felt sure that if we wrote letters to Secretary of State Clinton, that she could somehow help these poor children in Africa. We experienced our concerns and voices being heard through our wonderful democratic system. We were totally surprised that we could connect with the world to reach out and help other children! The doors of our hearts have opened and we will never be the same after particpating in Doors to Diplomacy. If we could all open the doors of our hearts to do what is right for all people, the world would be a better place.
|