The Cary Institute has launched the 9th Annual Hudson Data Jam, a competition for 4th-12th grade students.
The Hudson Data Jam is an opportunity to explore ecological datasets, creatively communicate the stories they tell, and win cash prizes by writing a song, recording a video, creating a book, or painting a mural.
The 2021-2022 Hudson Data Jam will be 100% virtual. Students can participate individually or in groups – from two children working together, up to a whole class.
Projects will be judged by scientists, artists, and educators. Cash prizes will be awarded for the top elementary, middle school, and high school projects. Register by February 22nd, 2022 to participate.
Cary educators are available to support students’ Data Jam journey with virtual or in-person classroom visits. Teachers should register by November 12th to secure a classroom session. Slots are limited.
New this year for grades 4-5, the Cary Institute is offering the Junior Data Jam. With this modified program, students will create a single graph, provide a brief interpretation of the patterns they observe, and produce a creative project with a short explanation. Students can work individually or in groups.
Students will be able to access ecology datasets on Cary Institute’s website, such as “are birds arriving earlier in the spring?” and “how does salinity shape fish diversity in the Hudson River estuary?”
Datasets fall into three levels of complexity: 1 – easy, 2 – moderate, and 3 – challenging. Cary educators can help students select an appropriate dataset; email Ashley Alred at alreda@caryinstitute.org for assistance.
The “Data Jamming: Creatively Sharing Science Stories of the Hudson Valley” webinar series will be available for teachers, parents, caregivers, and interested students. These freely accessible webinars are available online to help participants learn more about the Hudson Data Jam, plus tips for engaging and supporting students as they develop questions, explore their local environment, and communicate what they find.
Project submissions due online by 11:59 pm on March 8th, with a virtual Data Jam Awards ceremony & celebration on March 31st.
For more information visit the Hudson Data Jam Facebook page or email Ashley Alred at alreda@caryinstitute.org.
Photo of Lyme Disease Spike of 2009 by Marymount School of New York provided.
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