Don't Like It? Change It!

Standard 5 states:

Demonstrate creativity and innovation: Use idea-generating techniques to explore divergent and atypical questions and perspectives to develop original ideas for products or solve problems – such as a constructed object, proposal, presentation, solution to a problem, service, system, work of art, writing sample, invention, event, or an improvement to an existing product. Exhibit insight into the particular needs and interests of the target audience that are driving the process of innovation.

I really like how this standard is worded, and I want us to dive into this standard as much as possible this week, and, based on how involved our action plan is, next week as well.

The title of this week's blog will guide us toward our end goal of changing a school policy, but accomplishing it will not be easy.  The first thing we have to do is figure out which policy/rule we think needs to be changed and then determine exactly how to change it.  Once we've accomplished this, we're going to have to put together a compelling argument for why it should be changed; whether we present it in video form, in a multimedia presentation, or in a written proposal.  Putting everything together will require you to divide and conquer, and you'll need your best presenter to try to influence school leadership to make the change.

Before we get started, understand that there are some things, like graduation requirements, that just can't change.  I suggest sticking with a simple regulation, like acceptable use of technology (phones), dress code (some policies can be flexible), or tardiness.  Please refer to the student code of conduct to identify which process you would like to change.  Of course, if there is a process or other opportunity for change you have in mind (I'll share one with you on Monday), feel free to do that.  See below for a simple breakdown of what we'll do in class this week:

On Monday, as a group, we will search through the student code of conduct and discuss which policy to improve.  I'll share my idea during this discussion and we'll see what comes of it.

On Tuesday, in my absence, you will break down how you plan to attack this project.  Divide up responsibilities and begin working on your share of the duties.

On Wednesday, you'll email me a short message about what your responsibilities are and how you plan to complete your part of the project.

With the remaining time in class on Wednesday through Friday (I'll again be out on Thursday on Admin Duty), you will complete your project.  I assume your research should be finished by that time and we might even begin working on your proposal/video/presentation.

There aren't really concrete tasks to be completed this week, and I realize you might want some more structure for this project.  I'm available to assist and guide you as you need me, so don't hesitate to ask.  I look forward to seeing what you come up with.