Project+Outline

Phase I
Initial exposure to the concept that computer technology is primarily involved with the communication, storage and retrieval of information or content.

Research Topics
Students will choose research projects that deal with issues that impact societies on a global level (e.g. child labor, industrial development and pollution, technology access, healthcare). Their final products will focus on the societal, cultural, scientific, political and economic ramifications of the particular topic. The final team presentation/project portfolio will be accompanied by a variety of technology product including a presentation, newsletter, informational brochure, poster, periodicals and journals research project with abstract.

Assignments

 * Using internet news and information resources brainstorm at least 4 topics for potential research projects – be prepared to defend your choices.
 * Conference with team members, present final team choice at next session.
 * Present brief team report.

Phase II
Using Meta-Search Engines, keyword searching, dead ends, citing sources, bookmarks, saving data files – Students will use initial research topics to begin project research. The will explore the wealth of resources from general internet searches through periodicals databases and statistical archives.

Assignments

 * Conduct extensive Internet research on project topic(s).
 * Collect data store – websites, journal/periodicals research, appropriate subject graphics, and podcasts (audio & video research). Cite all sources appropriately.
 * Organize wikispace and post all information from data store to collaborative space.
 * Present brief team check-in report weekly.

Assignments

 * Continue refining research, collecting source materials
 * Begin creating edited word processing documents using data already collected. Cite all sources. Creat two brochures each focusing on a different audience
 * middle school audience
 * High school or adult level audience
 * Do basic graphic editing for brochures
 * Meet with team members regularly
 * Present brief team report at weekly session

//First Team Evaluation - First Student self Evaluation//

Assignments

 * Continue refining research, collecting source materials
 * Create samples of letters, press releases, poster, news sheets and other templates/wizards using project data and previous word processing documents
 * Edit and create graphics for __team design poster__
 * Share product samples with team members
 * Present brief team report at each class session

Assignments

 * Continue refining research, collecting source materials.
 * Create samples of spreadsheets, charts and graphs using project data. Pair samples with previous word processing products or give a brief written analysis for each sample.
 * Log all hours.
 * Share product samples with team members.
 * Present brief team report at each class session.

//Second Team Evaluation - Second Student Evaluation//


 * Continue refining research, collecting source materials.
 * Consult with team members to develop focus, theme and message for Public service announcement.
 * Create assigned presentation using Photoshop using collected project materials.
 * Present brief team report at each weekly session.

Phase VI
Team presentation and evaluation of student projects. Discussion of lessons learned and course evaluation. Post-course evaluation of student skills.

Final Project Evaluation Final Student Evaluation 