I was just reading about Google’s Global Online Science Fair. My first thought was why didn’t I think of that? But even if I had, it would have been mere seconds considering the scale of such a thing to squash any chance of mustering the necessary resources and financial backing.
While there are many upsides to a face-to-face science fair, the potential for an archived, digital, global presentation has some tremendous advantages for giving the projects life beyond the trifold.
Students aged from 13–18 from around the world are encouraged to submit their entries between now and April 4. Having judged more than my share of science fairs, I can only imagine the logistics of something of this magnitude. In fact, it would take a company like Google along with its friends in high places to pull it off with the grace and dignity the students deserve.
But on a side note, think for a moment about the spinoffs including the scope of projects, the communication (There are several blogs), the rubbing digital shoulders with famous scientists, and the career potential.
The unfolding of this science fair will really be something to watch.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7oJfK4E7RY[/youtube]