ICE 3M ASSESSMENT

Application of the Design Method

Thinking / Inquiry will be assessed by observation of student in class,student notes, and the final projects

Level 1

• To fully define a project or assignment it is often helpful to determine what information is given, and what is required to be completed or accomplished.
• Often it helps to make a list of challenges which must be overcome or things which are not fully understood.
• Student should define the requirements of the project . 

Level 2

• "There is more than one way to skin a cat." What possible resources are at your disposal to effectively overcome challenges and solve problems. Perhaps you could try to utilize some of the following resources;
  • Solve problems collaboratively with other students.
  • Use trial and error (when it is safe to do so).
  • Utilize help files on the computer.
  • Refer to your notebook and review lessons.
  • Review the instructions for the assignment .
  • Pay attention in class.
• If you get stuck it is important to complete as much as possible. Try looking at other aspects of the project. Is there anything that can be completed while you are working on resolving a different challenge. Know exactly what it is that is an obstacle to progressing with the project or assignment.
• Request help from the instructor. The help is most effective if you have made some effort to determined what it is that you need to know, and if the concern is common to others in the class.
• Student should investigate (sketch) many solutions to the design problem . 

Level 3

• Analysis is an effective technique often used to overcome challenges. Analysis is the process of breaking down a overwhelming larger problem into several resolvable smaller ones.
• You have been able to focus on the challenges at hand and overcome them.  
• Student should choose a final solution to the design problem, and realize the solution. This may involve integration of ideas and troubleshooting.

Level 4

• A high degree of thinking skills and effectiveness is often characterized by;
  • a student understanding the connection or extension of the content of the assignment to other problems. (perhaps bonus work if available)
  • achieving in a shorter period of time.
  • exhibiting mentoring behavior; helping others.
  • enjoying the challenges.  
• Student should reflect on the final design. Outstanding strengths and weakness of the design should be identified. Possible solutions or next steps should be delineated if the design was to progress.