After deciding the topic of the project, we had to formulate a plan of action and find a way to research our project. Soon, we decided to narrow our focus from three schools (Waena, Mauka and Ikea) to only Mililani Waena.
What Was Researched
The impact of local food production versus reliance on external sources of food for the Mililani Community will be researched. Efficient and earth friendly methods of farming should also be investigated.
What are possible natural history to observe and research?
Mililani used to be pineapple fields. It would be interesting to research how successful the agriculture was before it became suburbanized. The Waikakalaua Stream is one of the places in Mililani where the landscape is less altered by humans, although it does bear significant signs of use. It still provides a glimpse into what the entirety of Mililani looked like before the turn of the century, with a variety of native and invasive plants (Central Oahu Watershed Study).
What focused questions can be answered through both research and observation?
How do residents in Mililani obtain food?
What is the biggest source of food in Mililani?
Are residents educated on personal gardening?
How do students perceive food production?
Are Mililani students exposed to sustainable food practices?
Do elementary school students have adequate investigations?
How would nutritional education benefit elementary school students?
What questions need to be asked to analyze the evidence?
What factors influence the food choices that people make?
How do socio-economic factors affect our food choices?
What challenges will outweigh the benefits of consuming local and home-grown food?
How much influence do children have on their parents decisions?
What questions need to be asked that lead to valid conclusions and informed action?
What native plants would best benefit this environment?
Why haven’t these schools implemented gardens prior to this Y.E.S. Futures project?
What kind of lessons could involve this garden gardens?
How much food would a garden produce?
