Sunday, January 22, 2017

Creativity and Innovation: Changing Things for the Better



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/improving upon a current procedure/practice at your placement.  While on the job this week, I would like all of you to analyze the everyday tasks and activities that the employees carry out.  Think of a problem that occurs frequently or a task that could be completed more quickly if something was changed.  After your analysis, you will return to class to devise a plan or proposal that you will present to your supervisor.  This week and next, you will formulate that proposal/plan and when it's complete, you will actually present it.

This week is strictly dedicated to thinking of the problem, devising a solution, and putting your ideas on paper (actually in your blog).  You will compose a blog post that describes the problem and your ideal solution, and next week, you will work on your presentation (can be in PowerPoint [yawn], on video, or in the form of an invention).  Either way, you will set your eyes on a solution and let your supervisor know how you can help the organization improve.  Students from other schools have used a project like this to earn a promotion or gain public recognition.  Who knows what great things will happen when you complete this.

Have a great week!  I'll see you all tomorrow.

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