Talking with E.T.
An Authentic Problem-Based Learning Experience Based on Waves and Videoconferencing
Problem-based Learning is supposed to be "messy" — real problems tend to be that way. Although we often give students the impression that scientists follow the scientific method with precision, great discoveries are often made in messy situations.
The Constructa-Vision project attempts to give students an authentic problem that gets most kids excited. Their main job is to take some sample signals generated by the instructor and determine which ones, if any, might qualify as a possible SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) signal.
In the process, students discover what signals from satellites and pulsars sound like, discuss possible signals used to contact aliens, debate the pros and cons of targeted versus wide-area surveys, analyze several different possible patterns that could be used as beacon messages, and learn how to recognize wave patterns using a sound synthesis program. They also use CBL/graphing calculator technology to discover the relationship between frequency and pitch, and then construct signals they can use as standards to evaluate unknown signals.
To add another technology twist, students learn to videoconference and hold a symposium online, presenting their findings and using collaboration software in order to support their positions with evidence.
This unit does take a lot of time, but as students work on this problem, they discover and construct their own conceptual understanding of wave theory and technology.
According to Dale's Cone of Experience, people generally remember 90 percent of what they say as they do a thing. This project has students doing many things, then sorting through lots of them to arrive at a final conclusion, which is presented and defended.