NASA’s “Virtual Skies” Web site transports students and
teachers into the exciting world of aerospace research and
air traffic management without leaving the classroom.
“Virtual Skies,” a collaboration among aerospace and
education experts from NASA’s Ames Research Center, Moffett
Field, Calif., is part of NASA’s expanding commitment to
education. The Web site introduces students to several
aspects of the exciting world of aviation with a series of
virtual field trips using air traffic management as the main
theme. “Virtual Skies” contains numerous interactive elements
to encourage students to explore the excitement and variety
of aviation and aerospace research.
Geared for grades 9 through 12, “Virtual Skies” is aligned
with national education standards in mathematics, science,
geography and technology. The Web site also provides teachers
with lesson plans and worksheets to allow easier
incorporation of material into a regular high school
curriculum.
“‘Virtual Skies’ engages students in real problem-solving
scenarios, which demonstrate the relevancy and application of
math, science and engineering concepts,” explained Christina
O’Guinn, Ames Educational Technology Team lead. “Students
learn core concepts, while they also learn the vital skills
of critical thinking, communication and collaboration,” she
said.
“Virtual Skies” is divided into seven topic areas: weather,
aviation research, airport design, air traffic management,
navigation, communication and aeronautics. Each topic area
contains four interactive elements designed to enhance
student learning.
The first interactive element is the tutorial. The in-depth
introduction uses text, numerous interactive images and
graphics to introduce “Virtual Skies.” In selected areas,
students can explore subjects in detail without leaving their
seats simply by clicking on hyperlinks for additional
supporting material.
Once students learn about a topic, they have the opportunity
to put their knowledge into practice in the “Take Control”
and “You Decide” sections. In “Take Control,” students engage
in activities performed by real-life aviation experts. In
“You Decide,” students become virtual decision-makers and
gather necessary information to make critical management
decisions. The decision-making exercises encourage critical-
thinking skills while reinforcing the subject matter. When
students feel they have mastered the information, they can
earn a certificate of completion by passing a short, fun
quiz.
Professional educators designed “Virtual Skies” using
familiar, proven educational practices. To help make the
material relevant, “Virtual Skies” incorporates a “Career
Radar” section in each module, providing job descriptions, as
well as education and training requirements. Each career
section offers a computerized “affinity check” that evaluates
the match between students and careers.
Support and information for students don’t stop with the
modules. Throughout the school year, “Virtual Skies” will
offer special events such as web chats, webcasts, online
aerospace contests and collaborative projects for students to
interact with NASA aerospace specialists.
“The “Virtual Skies” Web site is an initial step for high-
school aerospace education,” said Robert Jacobsen, Director
of the Airspace Systems Program at Ames. “We will continue to
encourage and support students and teachers with enrichment
activities and learning material. NASA is fully committed to
education,” he said.
“Virtual Skies” is available on the Internet at:
http://virtualskies.arc.nasa.gov/
