For example, with a new program structure in 1998, students from 22 schools across Philadelphia were linked, not only electronically, but also with a common theme for their inquiry-based projects. Building upon this success, AAAS, TFI and Unisys further expanded the scope of the PSD program for the 1998-99 school year and this year's Public Science Day. The partners invited museums and schools across the U.S. to participate in the program and compete for project funding. Major changes were made to the structure of the '99 program, specifically a greater emphasis on the integration of the Web component. Science museums partnered with local elementary, middle and high schools to work on hands-on science projects that they would publish on the Web.
Many projects involve using the Internet for research and creating Web sites.
Unisys is extremely pleased to be associated with this program, part of our continuing investment in science and technology education initiatives that capitalize on advanced technology, said David Curry, vice president, Unisys Corporate Public Affairs. Using the Web allows us to make Public Science Day an educational program available to science classrooms everywhere. In Philadelphia, The Franklin Institute Science Museum will welcome students from the G.W. Childs, Decatur, Morrison and Patterson elementary schools. Along with displaying their projects in Franklin Hall, students will get to explore hands-on exhibits including walking through the chambers of the heart. The museum is located at 222 N. 20th St. in Philadelphia.