1The movie Titanic and the expeditions to explore the ship’s remains took thousands of viewers into the depths of the ocean. 2After seeing the high-tech equipment used to recover treasures from the sunken ship, students from around the world wrote letters to expedition leader Dr. Robert Ballard, asking to accompany him on an adventure. 3He couldn’t take the students on his ship, but he did the next best thing: he created the JASON Project to bring the thrill of discovery to millions of students worldwide. 4The project offers students in grades 4 through 9 opportunities to explore the world through videos, interactive Internet programming, and live satellite broadcasts.
5The JASON Project named after the Greek hero Jason. 6The seas were first sailed by Jason, the first great explorer, according to ancient myths. 7Dr. Ballard chose the name Jason because he sees his project as one that will also make great explorations. 8The JASON Project is training a new generation of explorers by developing their skills in science, technology, math, geography, and language arts.
9Using the curriculum and materials of the JASON Project, students can complete many activities during the school year. 10For example, they can use really great equipment, send e-mail to lots of researchers, and conduct all sorts of investigations. 11At the end of a school year, one student said, "I like science now, its not just about studying fungi with teachers in white coats." 12The sunken ships of the JASON Project have raised students’ curiosity. 13They now want to know about the bottom of the sea plus the world above it.