The document discusses the Future(s) project which aims to redesign education models for the modern world. It notes that traditional education systems developed for the industrial era no longer meet current needs. The project seeks to encourage self-directed, team-based, and globally networked learning using internet technologies. It outlines a participatory action research approach involving international experts and local groups to design, test, and share new education pilots from 2008-2010. The goal is more student and community input to develop new paradigms for education on a global scale.

1. Overview Nov 2008

6. Participatory Action Research (PAR) is a process through which teams of people discover, take action, measure the results of their actions and reflect on their progress towards a common goal. It has proven itself as a way and means through which participatory teams can solve local complex issues while providing input to national and international leaders (James, Milenkiewicz, & Bucknam, 2008)

7. Time Action July 2008 Project design implementation begins/ first network participants are invited and express interest August 2008 University educators express interest, first local team leaders for participatory sites are recruited September 2008 Website is built October 2008 First grant is written to support: an initial think tank meeting and technical assistance for participatory sites November 2008 Meetings begin with large international groups to discuss the project and encourage networking and participation

8. Time Development December 2008 Potential site leaders are contacted January-March 2009 First participatory local team meetings begin – training as to how to use website/social platforms for discussion and interaction begin April-June 2009 Fundraising efforts continue as sites meet, discuss and report back on initial ideas and understandings First challenges are overcome First funds are received July-September 2009 All ongoing efforts continue First participatory site design plans solidify Technical assistance begins to work with local education agencies and corporate sponsors to fund pilot efforts October-December 2009 Efforts on all fronts continue The project begins to be known on a broader scale 2010 Implementation begins of pilot designs for the Future of Education