The Mississippi's rich natural and cultural history come to life through interactive on-line field reports from guests such as river managers, barge pilots, biologists, poets, musicians, historians, and lock and dam operators. Participants can select from three inquiry-based projects that incorporate research, optional local field experiences, student reports, creative writing, art, and information sharing. The topics include weather-related data collecting and posting, local history exchanges, and the impact of rivers on people and people on rivers. The Rivers of Life site features topic related puzzles and activities, weekly posts of flood data on watershed map, and journal entries from historical figures. A print teachers' guide which is sent in advance of the unit contains activities and recommended Web resources.
Teachers also receive weekly activity units via email and daily update information.
Students who participate in this program will have opportunities to develop their skills and interest in collecting and contributing real scientific data, learning environmental impact principles, and investigating change of cultures over time. They will also have opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge to a global audience via the student work display on the site. Students are encouraged to email questions to special guests, respond to a question of the week, and communicate with each other. They can publish their work and ideas on the site.