Challenger Learning Center of Kentucky


	e-Mission Operation Montserrat Operation Montserrat, a new electronic mission, connects a flight director at the Challenger Learning Center of Kentucky in Hazard, Kentucky with a classroom anywhere in the world for a unique learning adventure. With the help of computers, the internet and a small video camera, students interact with the flight director at the Challenger Center to track the hurricane, predict volcanic rock fall and determine how these conditions will impact the islands air, land, water and vegetation. During the two-hour electronic Mission of Operation Montserrat, students participate as Earth Systems science experts and are members on the volcano, hurricane, or communication teams. Operation Montserrat engages students to work as scientists to solve problems in real-life situations such as: What impact will winds and falling ash from the volcano have on plant life? How far is the hurricane from the island? Should residents be evacuated and, if so, what are the possible routes? The mission challenges students to apply their mathematics and science knowledge to a real-life event. The Curriculum Operation Montserrat is an interactive method for teachers to effectively utilize technology in the classroom. This program meets state and national education standards in the areas of mathematics and science and is a new way to introduce Earth science into the classroom. Prior to the mission, teachers will participate in a one-day training that includes pre-flight curriculum and technology support to assist in preparation for mission day. The Scenario The giant awakens and the skies darken as ash and soot rain down on a remote tropical island. The ticking time bomb, dormant for many years, has awakened and residents of Montserrat Island worry about their fate. As the erupting volcano’s lava begins to devastate the countryside, Challenger Learning Center scientists learn a hurricane is approaching. During the process of transmitting information about the volcano and hurricane to Mission Control, a satellite gathering vital life-saving data malfunctions. With this medley of disasters looming the Challenger Learning Center scrambles to assemble a team of specialists to assist the island residents. Students from across the country become Emergency Response Specialists in a new electronic distance learning program, Operation Montserrat. The Website www.clcemissions.org/opm Fees e-Mission Operation Montserrat offered for 8th-12th grade students, $550.00 per mission.