Student teams identify a problem in their community that is related to one of four theme areas: health and safety, arts and entertainment, sports and recreation, or the environment. Teams then formulate a hypothesis, conduct research and experiments, and submit their solution. Students are encouraged to collaborate as a team using online discussion forums, bulletin boards and monitored chat sessions. Judges then review and score the team submissions to determine regional winners. Teams with the highest cumulative score in their region are invited to a finalist round where they present their projects to a panel of judges. Regional winners receive U.S. savings bonds.
"eCYBERMISSION is about getting students of all levels interested in science, math and technology," said Army Chief of Staff Gen. Eric K. Shinseki. "The country's future successes depend on having a civilian and military work force skilled in science, math and technology. The Army is working in partnership with other government and private-sector organizations to provide opportunities for young people to develop interests in these important disciplines so that America can maintain its technological edge."