Cogito.org

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Cogito is a Web site and online community for gifted middle and high school students interested in math and science. The site connects these students with peers from around the world who share a passion for the two fields, and with professionals already working in various disciplines. Cogito, Latin for "I think," evokes Descartes' famous Cogito ergo sum, which means "I think, therefore I am."

Inspired and funded by the John Templeton Foundation, Cogito is being developed through a collaborative effort by the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth and eight partners—all highly renowned organizations that serve gifted youth. The site launched in December 2006 and currently has more than 5,000 registered members from more than 50 countries. Cogito.org is maintained by the Study of Exceptional Talent. Other organizations that serve exceptional students, including the sponsors of major math and science competitions and educators that work with students in countries outside of the United States, can become Cogito affiliates and nominate students for membership.

Cogito features interviews with experts, profiles of young scientists, science news, Web resources and searchable directories of summer programs, competitions and other academic opportunities. Most of the content is available to the public, but members have access to interactive features, including discussion forums. The success of Cogito depends on just this sort of participation by scientists and mathematicians — from college students to retired professionals — to serve as guest speakers, resident experts and site advisers. Moreover, many faculty members have participated in the site. Biostatistician Francesca Dominici from the School of Public Health was the very first Cogito online interview, and since then, nanoscientist Peter Searson, of the Whiting School; Louise Prockter, of APL; geobiologist Hope Jahren, of the Krieger School; bioethicist Debra Mathews, of the Berman Bioethics Institute; and stem cell researcher Doug Kerr, of the School of Medicine, have either been interviewed or have participated in a discussion forum.

Cogito.org has received Silver (2008) and Gold (2009) Awards from the Parents' Choice Award Foundation for the best website for youth ages 12 - 18 yrs.

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