Introduction
History
Cooperative Research Network Pilot Study
Activities
Benefits
Sponsors

Background
In 1997 a group of high school students came to Jackson EMC with a proposal to build an electric vehicle and use it to help teach others about the science and technology of alternative transportation as well as environmental and social issues. The project was a big success and spawned the development of the Georgia Electric Vehicle Education Program that now reaches over 30 schools statewide and brings project-based education to the classroom in a fun and challenging program characterized by strong education-business partnerships. The program has amassed an impressive collection of media attention, praise from educators, students, and the business community, and well-documented statistically significant improvements in student test scores.

In August, 2001, Cooperative Research Network’s Marketing and Energy Services Task Force authorized the conduction of a scooping study to investigate the Georgia Electric Vehicle Education Program. Their study confirmed that the program had merit for rollout to other co-ops. Since program elements of the Georgia Program were sufficiently well developed, they recommended conducting a pilot study to replicate the Georgia Program.

Project Justification
The review of the Georgia Program revealed that the program was successful at bringing together schools and businesses in a unique and mutually beneficial partnership and the program has been able to sustain continued growth. However, little documentation as to the actual costs in money, resources, and manpower existed. This pilot study is intended to replicate the Georgia program at two schools in each of two separate states. In addition to creating a successful program in each location, the objective will be to carefully collect and analyze information needed in developing a business plan and materials for further program growth.

To control pilot program costs, much of the project management will be provided through CRN. In as much as is practical, materials and information from the Georgia Program will be used directly. Further, following the Georgia Program model, much of the funding of pilot program sites will be sought from local co-op and business partnerships rather than rely on CRN project funds. Site visits will be used to create these partnerships and generate local program support. Rather than conduct a project-specific training program, teachers will be able to attend the Georgia Teacher Training Workshop resulting in not only significant savings but also an important networking opportunity. Internet and email will be used to support the pilot sites and help facilitate information exchange while reducing cost. This project includes a significant effort to identify and develop partnerships with other educational, government, business, and private organizations that can contribute funds and resources to the project effort. It is anticipated that such support will be forthcoming and under the best scenario, may overtake this project reducing the need to expend all of the funds allocated.

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