Rain, Rain ,Come our Way!

Literature Review

 

         Our proposed Plan-a-Project, “Rain, Rain, Come Our Way,” is similar to many projects. The projects that we have researched are based on the information exchange model. Information exchanges aim to provide students with a broader range of data coming from multiple sources, which in turn, provides a richer, real world experience. Information exchanges also strive to provide students with information from different locations. Within our project, students will access data from various locations within Baltimore County.  Lastly, information exchanges aim to allow students to gather, analyze, and compare and contrast data. Within “Rain, Rain, Come Our Way,” students utilize all of these skills!

            The Roadkill Project is an information exchange project similar to our own. Mentioned in, “Digital Connections in the Classroom,” this project asked students to observe and gather data on animals that were killed on the side of the road. Using this data, students created scientific hypotheses on why the number of animals increased or decreased throughout the month. As the project carries on, students use the data to determine if it can help to support the theory that the full moon effects the amount of animals killed.

            Another project found in “Digital Connections in the Classroom” similar to ours is the Journey North Project in which students focus on the migratory patterns of different species.  Data is collected and submitted to a newsletter that updates participating schools. This is similar to our project because students are collecting data from many different locations throughout Baltimore County.

            Lastly, the O.R.E.O project has students stacking Oreos in the classroom! Students have two chances to stack Oreos as high as they can without the stack falling. Once they stack, they record the number of Oreos in their tower and submit the information. Students from all over the world add their data to review! This is similar to our project because students are submitting their own group’s data for all to access and analyze.

            The projects mentioned above have many similarities to our own. Multiple locations are involved, data is being collected, students are engaged and active, and technology skills are being utilized. Information exchanges are an authentic way to integrate several subject areas into one project, making learning more meaningful for students.