Gender and digital media in the context of a middle school science project

The ethnographic study focusing on gender, science education, and introduction of networked digital media for learning in middle schools is discussed. A socio-scientific investigation of an endangered rain forest called Clayoquot Sound, conducted by young people, was used as a tool to extend curricular boundaries and to challenge the notion of fixed gender and style preferences. In the second year of the project it was observed that young people use more video, digitized data, and used the WWW. Finally some recomendations regarding science education are given and need to include a network of human relationships focusing around topics that involve young girls and boys is emphasized.