Introduction:

This video gives a general overview of the Living Archives Project. During the project 3 classes of 7th graders from across Prince Edward Island (PEI) researched various topics related to PEI history and constructed an interactive online textbook, or e-text, based on their findings. NYU professor Andrea McKenzie, the e-text facilitator, describes the process the students underwent, from choosing their own topics through composing their final e-text entries. We observe students researching their topics at the Provincial Archives and other locations, and conducting interviews with family members who recall life at the turn of the century. We also watch the students go through the process of blogging, where they write up their findings online and post related photos and video clips gathered during the course of their research.

UPEI facilitators Bonnie Stewart (project manager) and Dave Cormier (Co-Principal Investigator) reflect on the significance of students creating an internationally accessible textbook for their peers.