We had the opportunity to learn a lot about archaeological research, exploration, site preservation, responsible discovery, and considerations for our project by connecting with many different individuals and organizations. Click on one below to learn more about our interactions with them!
Her Job: Archaeologist with Community Connections LLC
How We Connected: Skype a Scientist through the Archaeological Institute of America
What We Learned: Jasmine first helped our team by connecting us with valuable research resources, including a webinar that inspired our project idea. As our work progressed, she took time to review two different versions of our prototype and provided thoughtful feedback on what was working well and what we could improve. Her guidance helped us refine our ideas, strengthen our design, and grow as problem-solvers throughout the project.
Their Purpose: Protect the land and waterways in the national park, so people and future generations can go visit Mammoth Cave
Our Contact: Rangers Jennifer, Tori, and Dave; Volunteer Scientist Rich Bolden
How We Connected: Field Trip in December 2025
What We Learned: During our field trip to **Mammoth Cave National Park**, we learned about archaeology firsthand by exploring how archaeologists study and protect the cave. We learned about ancient drainage systems and how past human activity shaped parts of the cave over time. We also discovered how **citizen science** plays a role in archaeological research, allowing people outside of the field to help collect data and support preservation efforts. Mammoth Cave archaeologists work carefully to reduce human impact on the cave by studying sites responsibly and using their findings to protect sensitive areas. This experience helped us understand how archaeology is not just about discovering the past, but also about preserving it for the future.
Her Purpose: She researches, documents, and protects archaeological sites across the state while helping educate the public and guide responsible development.
How We Connected: In-Person Meeting in December 2025
What We Learned: Bailey Lambert from the Kentucky Archaeological Survey provided thoughtful and valuable feedback on our Multi-Tasker project. She encouraged us to think realistically about how much the tool might cost and reminded us that not every tool would be useful in every location, since archaeologists around the world have different needs depending on where they work and what they study. She also helped clear up a common misconception by explaining that archaeology is not mostly about dinosaurs, but rather about studying human history and past cultures. Bailey shared that archaeology is a severely underfunded field of study, which helped us better understand the importance of designing efficient, practical tools. She offered strong encouragement for how thorough our project was and even shared that she learned more about FIRST LEGO League through our work, making the experience meaningful for both our team and her.
Their Purpose: They support schools by helping teachers and students effectively use technology to enhance learning. They provide training, model best practices, assist with integrating digital tools into instruction, and support projects that involve problem-solving, creativity, and innovation across the district.
How We Connected: In-Person Meeting in October 2025
What We Learned: Our district technology coaches helped us during the early stages of the Multi-Tasker project by brainstorming ideas with our team and encouraging us to think creatively about how technology could be combined into one efficient tool. They specifically guided us to think about how the Multi-Tasker would be powered, as well as weight distribution, especially when discussing features like the drone wings. In addition to their technical feedback, they gave us a lot of encouragement and shared how impressed they were by the many scientific features we incorporated into our design, which helped build our confidence as we moved forward with the project.