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International Schools CyberFair, now in its 17th year, is an award-winning, authentic learning program used by schools and youth organizations around the world. Students conduct research about their local communities and then publish their findings on the World Wide Web. Recognition is given to schools for the best projects in each of eight categories: local leaders, businesses, community organizations, historical landmarks, environment, music, art, and local specialties.
This White House endorsed program encourages youth to become ambassadors for their own local communities by working collaboratively with community members and using technology tools to publish a Web site that displays what they have learned. The annual contest has involved more than 2.5 million students from 45,500 schools across 115 countriesand is considered the longest running international cyber event of its kind.
Competition judging also takes place online. Students evaluate each others projects by using a Web-based evaluation tool designed by Global SchoolNet. The top forty entries are reviewed by international judges, to determine the winners. Winners of International Schools CyberFair are announced each Spring at a event that is global in itself, with hundreds of schools participating via Internet.
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The theme for CyberFair
2012 Youth are challenged to publish original research projects that focus on how the dreams, positive actions and contributions of their local citizens have the power to improve, preserve and unite their community. “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” - Eleanor Roosevelt In partnership with the World Future Society, students are also encouraged to also share their dreams for the future - by thinking about the possible future, the probable future, the preferable future and the preventable future. Projects that best illustrate "future thinking" are invited to the World Future Society international conference in Toronto, Canada, July 2012, WorldFuture 2012: Dream. Design. Develop. Deliver |
CyberFair Vision
The purpose of International Schools CyberFair is for students, their schools and their local communities to use the Internet to share resources, establish partnerships and work together to accomplish common goals. We believe that involving youth in educational outreach projects can foster worldwide friendships and unite communities.
The Global Community - We are linked to the world!
We want our children to learn the skills they need to succeed both in the world of today and in all the tomorrows that follow. We want safe and strong communities in which citizens can live and learn together. We want our students to be responsible "global citizens" who appreciate and respect the diversity of the world around them. Communication technologies can foster positive and productive interaction among local and distant groups.
Youth participating in International Schools CyberFair will learn what it means to be part of a community... both locally and globally. They'll work with groups of children located around the world, each group showcasing their local community on-line. Youth will act as "Student Ambassadors," working with local leaders, local artists, local business, and the rest of their community to show the world what is special about *their* place.
As examples, students can meet local artists and musicians, interview them, tape their music, photograph their art, and show the world their cultural heritage. Or, students can work with their local chamber of commerce, farmers, or local business leaders, to show the world the things they make, grow and build.
Start with Collaboration
The focus of International Schools CyberFair is collaboration -- first at the local level and then on an international level. To encourage teamwork each school or organization may submit only one entry. Therefore, part of the learning experience is building consensus in choosing an entry topic.
It is very important when doing a collaborative project is to involve all of the key players and make sure that everyone agrees on the individual tasks and the timeline. Over the years we have discovered some collaborative strategies that really seem to work. Learn more
Every CyberFair project also includes a "Project Narrative" that explains how the project has been organized, what challenges had to be overcome, and how the project supported local content standards. Many wonderful community building success stories have emerged from these "behind the scenes" narratives. Learn more
Register for CyberFair
You are encouraged to register for CyberFair as soon as possible, to receive important announcements. Once registered, you may update your information at any time until the final project deadline. Register Now
Download Participant Banner
Download the official CyberFair Participant Banner. Place this banner on the front page of your web project and include this banner on any printed materials that you create about your project. Learn more
How to Get Local Publicity and Media Coverage
Stories about students engaged in exciting learning projects are always newsworthy. Don't miss this opportunity to seek favorable publicity for your school or organization in your local community. To help you get started, we have provided you with some media-friendly strategies and templates. Learn more.
Sponsors and Supporters
Companies, organizations, and individuals who support the International Schools CyberFair program believe that technology and kids can make a difference in the world! Over the past nine years many companies have contributed prizes, services and funding support. CyberFair supporters include Adobe, AOL-Timer Warner Foundation, AlphaSmart, Apple, Canon, Cisco, Cisco Foundation, Cu-SeeMe Networks, Epson, Gateway, GTE, Hyperstudio, Impatica, Lexmark, Lightspan, Macromedia, MCI, MCI Foundation, Microsoft, Microsoft Taiwan, NeTV, Network Solutions, Tech4Learning, Wells Fargo Foundation, and the San Diego Union-Tribune.
The importance of CyberFair has been acknowledged by Presidents, senators, congressmen and ministers of education from many countries. For example, President George W. Bush, President Clinton, Vice President Al Gore, Secretary of State Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, Susan Golding (San Diego Mayor), Max Gail (actor), Ronnie Lott (football superstar) Sinbad (comedian/actor) and Business leaders - Vint Cerf, Steve Wolff, John Morgridge are a few of the notable people who have applauded CyberFair.
Wouldn't you like to help? Learn more
Global Learning Resources
The CyberFair program encourages youth to broaden their academic skills and their global knowledge. International "conversion" resources are provided to help participants convert currency, time and measurement, as well as assist in translating languages from around the world. Map resources are provided to help locate and learn about cities far and near. Learn more
Frequently Asked Questions
As you might imagine, with over two million participants from 115 countries, we have had to answer a few questions. Who is eligible to participate? Where can you publish your web project? What should you do if you run out of time and can't complete? Please read the FAQs to gain insight and find the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Learn more
Read the Success Stories
CyberFair projects have had an enormous impact on students, schools and communities worldwide. Read these stories and testimonials to learn what the participants have to say! Learn more
Video Clips about CyberFair
CyberFair projects have had an enormous impact on students, schools and communities worldwide. Watch these video clips and find out how and why! Learn more