Context: Systems

Exploration of a System:
The Internet

This sub-organizer contains the following sections:
Prescribed Learning Outcomes
Suggested Instructional Strategies
Suggested Assessment Strategies
Recommended Learning Resources

Prescribed Learning Outcomes

It is expected that students will:

• use appropriate problem-solving models in the design of products, the provision of services, the development of systems, and the utilization of ideas
• analyse and use appropriate problem-solving strategies and critical thinking when resolving problems in a variety of contexts
• identify and apply appropriate knowledge, skills, and attitudes when making choices and defending decisions
• use appropriate criteria and standards to assess and evaluate products, services, systems, and ideas

It is expected that students will:

• use effective communication skills when gathering and sharing information independently and in groups
• select appropriate information gathering and communication tools when solving problems related to applied skills areas
• use appropriate multimedia and information technology in presentations

It is expected that students will:

• use appropriate technologies in a variety of applied contexts
• maintain an orderly and safe environment when engaged in a variety of activities
• identify and evaluate the impact of technology on the way information is gathered, problems are solved, and work is done

It is expected that students will:

• demonstrate an ability to assess the impact that acquiring applied skills can have on personal and career choices
• demonstrate a positive attitude toward lifelong health and well being
• demonstrate a willingness to participate independently and interdependently in a productive environment

Suggested Instructional Strategies

Students learn how to electronically access information in databases and to use data transfer technology within local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN) (e.g., Internet). They develop a problem requiring information access, conduct an information search, and incorporate information gathered into an existing project/assignment.
Suggested Time Frame: 5 - 20 hours

Strategies
Have students:

• review and/or acquire basic computer skills
• identify a problem that requires information
• outline the steps for signing onto the Internet via free provider or commercial service provider
• download and print information
• use electronic mail (e-mail) to leave a message
• use file transfer protocol (FTP) to transfer a file from a Gopher site
• use a Mosaic browser to locate information on the World Wide Web (WWW)
• compare the information found on the Internet with that available in school or a local library
• use Internet skills to gather information for others
• facilitate a presentation about obtaining information on the Internet, e.g., to an elementary class, another class or school group, a community group
• select a topic to research, and use skills to access appropriate information

Extensions

Some examples of information search are:

• FTP to a Physical Education Gopher
• FTP to a Home Economics Gopher
• FTP to a Technology Education Gopher
• talk to a Scientist
• Internet across the curriculum
• use World Wide Web (WWW) to obtain a picture from the National Gallery or the Louvre
• use WWW to access a midi file
• use WWW to access KidTalk for children's art

Suggested Assessment Strategies

• Portfolio of Internet activities
• Log of Internet connections
• List steps in making Internet connections
• Download appropriate information and print
• Flowchart of pathways on the Internet
• Develop an Internet dictionary

• Internet portfolio
  • clarity
  • completeness
  • organizing strategy
  • accuracy
  • reflective notes and ideas
• Flow chart or schematic
  • clarity
  • visual impact
  • accuracy/completeness
  • utility as an explanatory device

Recommended Learning Resources

Table of Contents Curriculum Branch Ministry of Education

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Maintained by: Applied Skills Coordinator

Revised: January 28, 1999

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