Students learn to use the computer for research, inputting data, producing graphs, writing reports, and drawing conclusions. When individual students can work on achievable goals and share their enthusiasm with their peers, they have a sense of accomplishment that produces a higher self-esteem. Cave water analysis is more than an in-class lab. It is research that is validated by the community. Student interest polls indicate this is the favorite topic of study each year.
Every student is a researcher, a chemist, a data analysis, a writer, and a computer whiz.
Use of Funds One result of this program was the desire within the students to increase awareness about caves and pollution of ground water. The challenge was In finding the best method to inform other citizens about these fragile environments. A virtual reality format was chosen. The simulated virtual reality cave tour website will be created by the University of Missouri Advanced Technology Department. Students will work with park rangers to document various structures within Onondaga Cave and with university technicians to create the website.