How can we improve our community?
Who are we as a community of thinkers, innovators?
Today's objective is to establish a clear direction for the group and begin a research process that explores both open and closed questions related to the topic. Another aspect of research for this project will be to identify at least one professional model that is in conversation with the subject and discipline. Since research provides credibility and support for the project, it will be essential to look carefully at carrying out this process meaningfully and anticipating how the research will be communicated to the audience.
DO NOW: Circle up! "Word Whip"
Go around the circle having each person to share the one word that stands out to them when they think about last week's project and ideation. Discuss questions, concerns.
IDEATION: Spend a few minutes clarifying the topic(s) and question(s) that the group decided on last week Friday. What direction are you going? Make the initial plans, thoughts, ideas visible in the room.
QUESTIONS: To begin the research process, generate lists of CLOSED and OPEN questions that you and/or your audience needs to know. Document these.
CLOSED Questions: Closed questions represent the questions you need answered in order to understand the background information about your project topic. These answers are easily found in research.DefinitionsFacts and statisticsOne correct answersExample: What is the Declaration of Independence?
OPEN Questions: Open questions are answered using knowledge of the topic (closed questions) and in-depth analysis. These questions are based on concepts rather than tangible information.Based on concepts or ideasRequires background information on the topicIncludes analysis of the topicHas at least one correct answerExample: Why is the Declaration of Independence a persuasive document?
RESEARCH: As a group, determine the best way to approach research: Individual tasks? Research groups? Begin studio time with each person stating a goal/direction. Keep in mind that it is necessary to have quality sources, annotations representing the reading, and model projects.
EXAMPLES of QUALITY SOURCES
Use Google Search Tips: MIT
Other...
ANNOTATION FORMATS
Other...
MODEL PROJECT MINES
Other...
SYNTHESIS: Come back together so that each person has an opportunity to report out on their research. What can we say, now that we have done research? Revisit the original topic, open questions, and closed questions to determine what has been resolved or needs to be revised. What is essential? Brainstorm project details....creating tomorrow!
