Opportunities for Community Involvement: Stakeholder Groups Involving individuals and organizations from the immediate as well as distant communities has the potential to benefit three different stakeholder groups: students faculty and staff the community The immediate community may be involved through individuals or groups of parents as well as businesses, policymakers, and organizations that can support your efforts. The concept of the "expanding global community" implies that a school does not exist solely within a single geographic community but can build relationships with other educators, professionals, and businesses in ever-expanding communities. Activities such as WebQuests, International E-Pals (electronic pen pals), and Web sites that offer students the opportunity to "Ask An Expert" also help to cross geographic boundaries. Examples of Online Partnerships The Globe Program The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) GLOBE Program partners schools and scientists to provide and analyze weather data. This worldwide program enters into partnerships that local organizations which recruit schools, train teachers, and mentor students. Students gain real science skills by taking measurements, analyzing data, and participating in research in collaboration with scientists. The student-collected data are used by scientists in their research. The GLOBE Program also trains teachers to help students improve their achievement in science and math, and in the use of computers and network technology. EnergyNet Educational Dividends for TECH 2000 promotes a business and education partnership in Illinois called EnergyNet Energy Auditing to involve students in the evaluation of their school's energy usage. Using community resources, students and teachers at participating schools generate proposals to reduce energy waste and cut budgetary expenditures for energy. Sharing EnergyNet project problems and solutions create collaborative efforts between participating schools. WebQuest WebQuest learning activities, based on a model created by Bernie Dodge of San Diego State University, allow teachers from classrooms around the world to share Web-based learning activities. WebQuests encourage students to use information in authentic projects that promote higher-level thinking skills. 4-H Virtual Farm The Extension Services at Virginia Tech together with members of Virginia's university and farming community provide the educational Web site, 4-H Virtual Farm, for children to learn the science and business of farming.