With the use of home computers and smart phones, students can participate in major research projects around the world and our solar system. Below is a PDF file with many, many opportunities for students to be engaged in real science. Data collected by students and other citizens gives scientists a greater array of data then they would normally get in a research project. There are several pet projects, C-Barq, Canine Health, Family Dog Project, Pets can Do. or help scientists listen to Orcas right from your computer. Please ask your student to look to see if there is one they are interested in participating. And yes, there have been middle school students who have discovered new planets - wouldn't that look good in the PAWS portfolio and resume!!!