PART K
Alison Reflection and Recommendations
This project has by far been one of my favorite high school experiences. It allowed us to be independent and self-reliant on completing every step of the design process. Working independently, with only a small group allowed us to bond, find our strong suits, and gain an experience similar to that of an actual engineering environment. We only got advice when we really needed it which was also nice because it felt like we were in control of our project and the direction it took, which you don't get from many high school classes or projects. My group was great and we were always able to get stuff done well and on time. At times it felt like we were doing nothing, but that was only because we were so ahead of schedule. Our design was unique to our problem and was praised by some of the judges. I can't think of any way to improve this project. As long as groups remain on task and manage time well, everything should turn out pretty good!
Allie Reflection and Recommendations
This project, and the past four years, as made me feel that I could not have been more prepared for real world applications of engineering. This assignment is structured in such a way to leave a small room for error, but large room for possibilities. I liked that there was an easy, step by step process, and even though this will not always be the case in life, I can use the critical thinking skills that this course has taught me for everyday life and for challenges I face ahead. By exposing students to what it means to really think of, design, test, build, and market their own product teaches us that we really can do anything we set our mind to with just a little guidance and a lot of creativity. My teammates were awesome, productive, and very understanding about my scheduling difficulties. They got a lot of work done, and were always willing to try different methods and listen to my input. (Thanks guys! Keep in touch!) Mrs. Zienty over the past four years has always encouraged her students to try hard and think of how to come up with a solution rather than simply give us answers. She has been a great role model and teacher, and any student to have her in the future will feel just as lucky as I do. The only recommendation I have for this assignment is to keep doing it the way it is! The structure is great, my group and I never felt crunched for time either.
Elizabeth Reflection and Recommendations
This project was definitely a good experience. We learned to meet deadlines and manage our time, skills few high school students have. That was a very real world aspect of the project. Additionally, we learned to work in a group and delegate work to be more efficient. As a person who enjoys working independently, I needed more experience working with partners on something important. We were able to split up work and create a good prototype and presentation because of it. We were also exposed to a lot of different concepts in the design process that some of us will use in the future. My teammates were all hardworking and we all felt comfortable working together. I really don't have any recommendations for the future because the rubric was perfect in guiding the groups, but as displayed by some groups this year, some additional guidance is needed by the teacher to ensure that every prototype is coming along and will be ready for presentations. Also, from the projects this year I'd recommend warning the next groups to order parts early to be prepared for any shipping issues. Overall, this project was a great experience that will prepare me for the future because of skills gained in time management, group work, communication, presenting, and working independently (with little assistance from a teacher).