The Charlotte Project: A World Wide Web Learning Project

Abstract

As the World Wide Web becomes a growing source of credible information, academics are challenged to implement an Internet component into curriculums. The Charlotte Project, a student project created by the author, requires students to assemble a reference guide containing relevant web sites and then present the project results to an audience. Students search for sites throughout the academic term, capturing site information in a database. At the end of the term, a professional product is compiled. This paper describes the project goals, process, point structure, and data capture forms. The Charlotte Project has many educational benefits, including hands-on computer time, development of Web browsing and searching skills, critical evaluation of web sites, and application of database management techniques. Observed student and instructor learning instances are discussed. Project teaching notes include suggestions for application to various disciplines, a project timetable, studentgroup application, and technology requirements.