New Technologies Link Ancient Cultures

Ellis, K. (2002). New Technologies Link Ancient Cultures. Retrieved from http://www.edutopia.org/new-technologies-link-ancient-cultures

This article describes the First Peoples' Project, a way for native children to learn from other native children in other areas of the country or across the world. Using technology such as cameras, video recorders, email, and websites, they compile information about their heritage, and share it with students around the world. It is a chance for them to learn from their elders and preserve their heritage, while at the same time learning about technology. They also learn about other native students participating in the project. It even generated some humanitarian aid, with native children from the Choctaw Tribe donating blankets and a generator to an impoverished school in Thailand.

I think this project sounds like a great idea for many reasons. First, it helps preserve native cultures. Second, it allows for learning from non-textbook sources: elders, as well as other students worldwide. Third, it is a chance for students to be proactive with technology and learn how to use technology to communicate what they are learning. It makes me curious if any local tribes or schools in Washington participate in this project.