2026-2027 Topics
Each year our topics represent important challenges from business, civics, society, science, and technology.
Practice Problem #1
Digital Dark Age
In the digital dark age, how might we prioritize data to save and reduce the effects of information loss in the future?​
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The Digital Dark Age is an inability to access previously collected documented files, photos, and other information stored in outdated file formats, software, or hardware. Data becomes corrupt, scarce, or otherwise inaccessible as technology changes and physical media decays.​​
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Practice Problem #2
Disappearing Cultures
How might the losses of endangered cultures across the world impact individuals and communities in the future?​
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​Disappearing cultures, also called endangered or vanishing cultures, represent the unfortunate phenomenon where unique and often ancient ways of life, traditions, languages, and customs face the risk of extinction. These cultures are typically marginalized and/or indigenous. They are threatened by factors such as globalization, urbanization, assimilation, environmental changes, conflict, and government policies.
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Qualifying Problem
Influencer Marketing
How might influencer marketing evolve as businesses strive to preserve their credibility while maximizing profits in the future?​
​Influencers combine marketing with their presence in the public eye to persuade others. By establishing devoted fan bases for specific brands and profiting from their visibility, they have revolutionized the advertising industry. Marketing influencers impact a variety of platforms such as online sources, television, music, and print media. These strategies aim to build trust and credibility by associating products with a respected figure, thereby influencing consumer behavior.
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State Bowl
Health Security
How might health security efforts prevent, prepare for, and mitigate the impact of public health crises in the future?​
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​Health security is a critical component of public health and global well-being, encompassing measures and strategies to protect populations from the threats of infectious diseases, biological hazards, and other health emergencies. It involves various activities, from disease surveillance, early detection, and rapid response to developing effective vaccines and medical countermeasures.
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