Their efforts are based on evidence that students contend best with novel information by adding new ideas to their existing repertoire of scientific knowledge. KIE learners develop scientific ideas from personal experience, school instruction, Internet exploration, and other activities. The project's software then guides the students in investigating those ideas and seeking a cohesive understanding of them. Using the software and related classroom activities, learners emulate such science practices as comparing theories, critiquing arguments, and designing problem solutions. Individual students, families, and school groups use KIE for personal as well as class activities.
Teachers use the environment to add activities in new domains.
And science experts participate as liaisons to develop Internet materials for the students.