The Time Capsule from Tomorrow is a collection of primary documents from the future. The documents are artifacts which reflect different genres of writing, and together they tell a cautionary tale about a new innovation and the worst-case-scenario consequences.
THE PROCESS:
Day 1:
Students will conduct individual research about the future. The research will start broad and incorporate many different areas of innovation. Research should look at the next 50-100 years. Some of the ideas may already exist, but have not been widely adopted. Each student will identify at least 5 innovations.
Research could fall into the following categories:
Medicine Communication Energy Technology Artificial Intelligence/Robotics Military Agriculture Entertainment Government Economy Neuroscience Exploration/Space Law and intellectual property Social life Sports Materials science Safety Privacy/Surveillance Aviation Architecture/ConstructionOthers?
With group members, students will select one innovation which on the surface looks promising, but on closer examination could have unforeseen consequences.
As a group, students will brainstorm a list of possible consequences and impacts. Consider the effect of the innovation on several of the following cultural elements:
Social stratification Family structures/ roles Identity Individuality Economics Fashion Food Entertainment/Recreation
Education Employment Gender Roles Rural vs. Urban Laws and law enforcement Government services & systems
Language Art/Music Religion/Traditions/Celebrations
Others?