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The Elements of Research

1.How did your activities and research for this CyberFair Project support standards, required coursework and curriculum standards?

In this research project, we applied language skills by collecting and reading online materials, designing interview outlines, and writing website content. Under the guidance of our teacher, we learned how to analyze and understand information, ultimately organizing interview content and compiling a comprehensive research report and website text. The study of social sciences allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the business model of the grape industry, market competition, and the challenges of agricultural transformation. The field of science and technology helped us understand the growth conditions of grapes, including soil, water, pest management techniques, and observations of growth changes. Utilizing digital tools for data organization and website creation aligned with our information technology courses. Team discussions and task division to overcome time and technical challenges represented the application of interdisciplinary learning, helping us develop problem-solving skills and teamwork throughout the research process.

2.What information tools & technologies did you used to complete your CyberFair project?

In this study, we used a variety of digital tools and equipment to collect and organize data related to the grape industry. First, we searched for information on grape growing techniques, business models, and development of local specialties through Internet- connected ipads and desktop computers, and used the Padlet platform to collect and categorize the data for subsequent review and analysis.

During the fieldwork and participant interviews, we used a variety of tools, including ipads, pens, cell phones and laptops, to record the process in detail. Recording, photographing and videotaping helped us to keep the interviews intact, while organizing key details in notes to ensure that all information was fully documented.

When we return to the campus for a discussion, we use touch screens or projectors to present the data on a large screen for all team members to review and discuss. Each team member used an ipad to edit and write the shared document in real time to ensure synchronization and efficiency of teamwork. After each discussion, we further organized the data to lay a good foundation for the research results. Finally, we created a website to present the results of our research in a visual and lively way.

3.How did your project involve other members of your community as helpers and volunteers?

The school provided the digital equipment and venues necessary for this research, such as ipads, voice recorders, smart classrooms, and computer labs, enabling us to smoothly carry out data collection and organization. In addition, the teachers guided us in analyzing data, planning interview content, and even sacrificed their weekends to accompany us on site visits, allowing us to gain a deeper understanding of the grape industry in Dacun Township.

We also appreciate the support of the parents, who assisted in transporting us to school or on field visits, making the research process more efficient. Special thanks to the grape farmers and industry workers in Dacun, who took time out of their busy schedules to participate in interviews and share their cultivation experiences and industry challenges, helping us to understand the entire grape business model from a broader perspective. They not only provided first hand industry information but also allowed us to experience the details of vineyard management, deepening our understanding of agricultural development and sustainable management. This research has been very rewarding for us, and we hope to promote the unique value of Dacun grapes through our website.

4.In what ways did you act as "ambassadors" and spokespersons for your CyberFair project both on-line and in person?

In this research, we served as ambassadors for promoting Dacun’s grape culture. Through on-site interviews, investigative research, data analysis, literature review, and website creation, we introduced more people to the history of grape cultivation in Dacun, its industrial development, and the farmers' business models. Additionally, we focused on the impact of smart agriculture and sustainable management on the grape industry. By utilizing digital presentations, we aimed to help the public gain a deeper understanding of the unique value of Dacun grapes and their transformation and challenges in the market.

5. Intellectual Property Rights Description for the Website Project

All photos, data, and images on our research website were self-produced and recorded by the research team, with some contributions from relevant individuals. Proper credit is given to any referenced materials.

6.What has been the impact of your project on your community?

In this special research project, we delved into the over half-century-long history of grape cultivation in Dacun Township. Known for its Kyoho grapes, Dacun once had a peak cultivation area of 700 hectares. Despite market transformations, it remains one of Taiwan's key production areas for fresh grapes. We discovered that local farmers continuously enhance grape quality and maintain market competitiveness through technological innovations such as fruit thinning, bagging, and pest management.

To share this rich industrial story, we gathered extensive data, conducted farmer interviews, and carried out on-site investigations. Ultimately, we created a dedicated webpage to help more people understand the development of this representative grape industry. Through this research, we hope to showcase how Dacun Township integrates smart agriculture with tourism, ensuring the continued inheritance and innovation of its grape-growing culture.

7. Discoveries, Lessons and Surprises

Participating in this project gave us a deeper understanding of Changhua, which is not only renowned for its agricultural development but also serves as a key production area for fresh grapes in Taiwan, particularly the Kyoho grape industry in Dacun Township, which has a profound impact on the local economy. Moreover, Changhua's agricultural strengths extend beyond grapes to include rice and other high-quality agricultural products.

Through this research, we hope to highlight the unique value of Dacun grapes, further promoting the growth of the local agricultural economy. At the same time, we aim to enhance the visibility of the regional brand, attracting more consumers and tourists to support and appreciate the local industry.