CT Academy for Science and Research
The Connecticut Academy for Science and Research (CTASR) is a Connecticut interdistrict grant program that is funded by the Connecticut State Department of Education. The program is designed to encourage and support student interest and achievement in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Students visit various academic and industry research facilities in Connecticut while completing and entering a research project in a state, national, or international competition.
Students use concept-mapping software to create graphic models, analyze case studies, validate ideas through Internet research, and properly cite the research that supports their projects. Moodle (a free, open-source course management system designed to help educators create effective online learning communities) facilitates student research projects with a variety of online resources and online collaboration with team partners, industry mentors, and teachers. Students create a portfolio to collect their work in ELGG (an open-source, electronic portfolio system).
Each student also creates a research blog to demonstrate and document the evolution of individual growth during the research process. Research blogs document student journals, problem solving, skill development, and analysis of research. Industry mentors and teachers share ideas and provide feedback to students through their research blogs.