Scenario

The project arose out of a convergence of several groups' interests: The PolyMath Development Group (PDG) of the Centre for Experimental and Constructive Mathematics (CECM)⁴, the community-based Island Pacific School (IPS) on Bowen Island, and the Assessment of Technology in Context (ATiC) laboratory⁵. Initially proposed as a field testing project for a telelearning development programme⁶, it finally acquired a multi-facetted character reflecting the goals of each group.

The intention was to engage a group of middle school students in the design and assessment of software in the early stages of development. They were to be included in the process as conscious participants, aware of their role and active in their contribution to it. Although the topic under review was mathematics, this activity was incorporated within the information technology curriculum.