Poll of the Week: Favorite Activities

Each week on the OLC, a new theme brings new activities.  We try to provide a variety of experiences that tie into the theme, and hope that they are entertaining as well as educational.  This week's Poll of the Week asked you which type of activity is your favorite.

The majority of respondents chose the 'Quiz' as their favorite activity.  This is indeed the most numerous type of activity, also being part of our Live Chat reporting.  We like the quiz as well for its ability to auto score your points so you can see them posted right away.  Other items may take up to ten days score and post. (If you applied for the Summer STEM Experience, don't worry.  Any points earned before the application cut-off date will be counted.) 

Coming in second is Models.  I am a huge proponent of learning through physical manipulation - doing something is better than reading or seeing something.  Constructing a model provides a corporeal manifestation of an object that can be handled a viewed from different angles and perspectives.  This week's Cassini model allows for the understanding of the systems that make up the spacecraft.  If you know of a cool model that we can share, let us know!

Here's what some of you had to say about  our modeling activities:

Models are probably the best part of the OLC. The Dawn and ISS models make awesome room decorations :)

I don't like them so much, but that's only because my printer can't print cardstock. :/ (Note: You can use regular paper - your model may not be as sturdy but the educational result will be the same!  JG)

I really enjoy making the models. Especially my ISS, even though my solar panels drooped considerably from gravity's effects on my heavy glue. But no matter, it graces the air above my desk.

Isn't it great to have friends that would understand that we like having models of space orbiters in our room.

I enjoy making models also.  They not only earn you 50 points but also allow you to have fun.  You also get to display them in your room.  Yeah, and it is great to know you are not the only person who has orbiters floating around all over the house.

This week's poll asks you opinion on the Greatest Wonder of the Solar System.  Take the poll, and then defend your choice on the Discussion Board. 

One more note: we encourage you to share ideas for polls in the drop box labeled 'Poll of the Week Ideas'.  Our recent poll on traveling to the Moon was suggested by Arman Jaffer, and I failed to give him his credit.  Thanks, Arman!