The Jason Project: Real Science. Real Time. Real Learning

The JASON Project was founded in 1989 by Dr. Robert D. Ballard. Its mission is to inspire in students a life-long passion for learning in science, math, and technology through hands-on, real-world scientific discovery. 

From the Jason Project site:

"JASON's Approach to Learning is All About Technology!  JASON's founder, Dr. Robert Ballard, pioneered the development of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV), cameras, and tools, enabling scientists far away from a research site to make on-site observations, collect data, and conduct research activities. This concept opened new doors for researchers across the globe – and changed science education dramatically.

JASON was born from a breakthrough idea – that technology systems could empower teachers and students to participate in real fieldwork right from the classroom and in their communities. Not only does learning take place about the state-of-the-art technologies and tools that scientists use in their research (such as remote sensing, spectrometers, telemetry, satellite images, etc.), but students and teachers also use a variety of hands-on educational technologies like the resources available in Team JASON Online and technology skills as they solve science and math problems."

The Jason Project is not a free program.  Prices vary depending on the type and quantity of materials ordered.  One reference on their site refers to a class pack for one of the expeditions which includes all materials and Team Jason Online access for $508.00.  The best thing to do is call to find out exactly what your costs would be depending on the number of teachers and students involved.  Contact information for Jason materials is:

Phone: 888-527-6600
E-mail: info@jason.org
http://www.jasonproject.org

For the Team Jason Online component (Teacher Center, Digital Labs, Resources and Chats, Message Boards and Events), the minimum system requirements are a PC running Windows 98 or higher or a Macintosh running MacOS 9 or X with 64 MB of RAM and 15 MB free hard-drive space; a connection to the Internet; and either Netscape version 7 or higher or Internet Explorer version 5.0 or higher. Macromedia Flash, Apple Quicktime, and Adobe Acrobat Reader plug-ins are recommended for the best experience.

Although costly, the Jason Project is a great model for technology integration, especially when students participate in the current expedition.  Students have the opportunity to engage in truly authentic investigations with 21st century scientists.  Although it is a program geared toward middle school, it can also be used in upper elementary. The materials provided provide a nice framework for interdisciplinary studies.