The Illinois Rivers Project was developed as an integrated, multidimensional science/technology/society pilot project designed to introduce water quality dimensions into Illinois high schools. The project involved high school science, social science, and English teachers in an integrated study of their local river and community. Science students conducted water quality tests; social studies classes evaluated the culture and historical impact of the river; and English classes processed the information into a collection of writings that spanned all aspects of river life. A key feature was the use of technology in the form of a computer network. The participating schools were able to communicate with each other via computer on water quality, problems, and successes. Specific goals addressed in the program include the following: (1) provide a working model so that Illinois high schools and middle schools can develop a science/technology/society unit based on water quality studies; (2) provide equipment and materials that represent the available technology in scientific water quality studies; (3) develop a vehicle for gathering data and applying skills gained in the social science (regarding water quality) to decision-making in real-life situations; (4) interpret written materials on river life and culture in such a way that students will be able to write well-organized and coherent materials for acceptance in the project publication, "Meanderings"; (5) develop an increased competency in microcomputer application and its role in data analysis; and (6) introduce project high school students and teachers to academic and industrial scientists, along with their equipment, so that they become aware of the work at the "cutting edge" of science. Data collected on student attitudes, student knowledge of water quality parameters and techniques, participating teachers, and an assessment of the instructional priorities of the teachers were used to evaluate the program. Student test results are summarized on seven tables. (18 references) (KR)