Kim Barraclough
Northern News Services

NNSL (Nov 02/98) - The lure of a virtual treasure hunt in cyberspace has prompted 37 groups of Northern students to make like modern day Long John Silvers in pursuit of hidden spoils.

Canarie Inc.'s annual treasure hunt is off to a roaring start this year with 10,000 entries. There were only 1,000 entries last year.

Students are made to search different Web sites for 25 "puzzle pieces," they must then compile onto a 5 x 5 grid table on a Web page.

"It's grown tremendously over the last year," said Enid Harrison, co-ordinator for the program.

Harrison said 10,000 entries was a projected goal of theirs.

"It was on the high side of our expectations and we're really pleased to have reached that mark," she said.

Alan Petten, a computer teacher at Sir John Franklin high school in Yellowknife, said the treasure hunt teaches students a number of different skills.

According to Petten, students must learn some Internet searching and Web page design skills in the school curriculum.

"The treasure hunt is a good way to refine and test the skills of the students," said Petten.

As well as being a learning experience, the treasure hunt also offers some fairly hefty incentives.

"Private sector companies have given generously," said Harrison.

The treasure hunt offers more than $95,000 in prizes. An IBM ThinkPad, software packages from Corel and Microsoft and Bell Mobility Cell Phone service are just a few of the prizes being offered.

"For some, it's a challenge and for some, it's the prizes," said Patten.

Competitors have from Oct. 16 to Nov. 16 to complete the treasure hunt. Names will then be drawn for the prizes.