1. scan the list of possible community/researcher connections and select a area of deep interest to you; develop a probing question and working hypothesis; and design the experience after meeting with your researcher and classroom instructor

2. assess and evaluate the information gathered: establishing, analyzing and translating ideas from among many and varied sources…an in depth study of resources; keep a journal of these data, making connections as you proceed through the experience

3. use science concepts as triggers and tools for making process-sense and applications (complex thinking)…interpret, perceive patterns, make connections and synthesize for insight

4. disclose original thinking—vision for the future, world-changing applications

5. complete the science journal write, the linking of the multi-media portfolio webpages, and speculate the best mode for presenting your findings—symposium presentation

6. experience the peer review process by having a trusted person analyze your thinking; multimedia portfolio data, ideas and findings; and ideas for presenting these findings; then, reflect on this person's comments and work to improve the portfolio data and product presentation

7. assemble a creative, original, thorough, and thoughtful multimedia portfolio and prepare for the symposium presentation

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