This project is investigating the design, feasibility, and applications of a Flash-based template system, linked to digital libraries, to enable teachers to easily assemble, assign, and customize online learning activities. Primarily focusing on life science content appropriate to Grades 3-5, the project is developing three computer-based interactive environments that reflect children's' developmental growth. Using template formats to support concept learning, children find, match, categorize, and arrange media objects from a digital library. With another format, children explore and manipulate variables within a model or micro world. A third template format supports scientific observation, data gathering, and analysis. To evaluate and identify tools that enhance the educational effectiveness of digital libraries for elementary teachers and children, the study team is constructing a small online digital collection to provide a research base. The prototype is also being linked to other NSDL collection and service projects, and collaborations with other NSDL projects are investigating the integration of a Flash-based template system into the broader NSDL effort.
