You also might check the data-collaboration activities and simulations at the Science Junction site. The Albatross Project uses sensitive satellites in space, miniature transmitters on birds, and rapid e-mail communications to investigate the travels of albatross on the open ocean. The site, which is operated out of Wake Forest University, includes substantial information on various projects now being undertaken, including one in Hawaii. Students make environmental observations and report their data findings on the Internet. Scientists use the students' data to formulate atmospheric models, then provide feedback to the students.
Students also share findings and communicate with one another using e-mail from the Web site.
Best of all, students are interactive partners with scientists. The Estuary-Net Project Web site is excellent for teachers who want to use guided inquiries in their classroom. The goal is to solve estuarine and watershed pollution problems that do not arise from a single source. Comprehensive information is included on estuaries' characteristics and ecology, as well as on issues to maintaining, monitoring, and ensuring water quality standards. All Estuary-Net activities indicate the time needed for class participation and show objectives, assessments, materials, procedures, and hypotheses.