The purpose of this project is to engage 11th-grade students in a real-world, hands-on learning experience by designing a bike pump track that serves the community's needs. Through this project, students will apply design thinking principles, collaborate with community stakeholders, and explore sustainable transportation solutions. The project aims to foster critical thinking, self-directed learning, and an academic mindset, while also meeting National Core Arts and Next Generation Science Standards. Students will develop a sense of identity and belonging as they contribute to a meaningful community service initiative.
Learning goals
Students will develop skills in collaborative design and community engagement by creating a proposal for a bike pump track that addresses local needs and promotes sustainable transportation. They will apply design thinking principles to innovate and refine their ideas, considering environmental and social impacts. Through self-directed learning and critical reflection, students will enhance their self-efficacy and problem-solving abilities, while gaining insight into civic processes and stakeholder collaboration.
Standards
[National Core Arts Standards] VA:Cr2.3.Ia - Collaboratively develop a proposal for an installation, artwork, or space design that transforms the perception and experience of a particular place.
[Next Generation Science Standards] HS-PS3-3 - Design, build, and refine a device that works within given constraints to convert one form of energy into another form of energy.
[Next Generation Science Standards] HS-PS3-3 - Design, build, and refine a device that works within given constraints to convert one form of energy into another form of energy.
Competencies
Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Products
Students will collaboratively design and create detailed scale models of their proposed bike pump tracks, incorporating community feedback and design principles. They will produce a comprehensive proposal document that outlines the track's design, safety features, and environmental considerations. Additionally, students will develop a multimedia presentation and a video documentary capturing their project journey, including insights from community partners and personal reflections. These products will be showcased at the 'Bike Fest Expo' and shared with community stakeholders to gather further input and support.
Launch
Kick off the project with a 'Community Cycling Day' where students, teachers, and community members participate in a group ride to explore potential locations for the pump track, fostering discussions on design and community needs. Host a 'Design Thinking Challenge' workshop where students work in teams to brainstorm and sketch initial pump track concepts, using feedback from local cyclists and community members to refine their ideas. Launch a 'Bike Culture Film Night' featuring documentaries and short films about cycling communities and pump track projects worldwide, followed by a group discussion on how these examples can inform their own project.
Exhibition
Students will host a 'Bike Fest Expo' at a local park, showcasing their design models and multimedia presentations at interactive booths, inviting community members to provide feedback. They will create a 'Virtual Reality Bike Tour' event, allowing attendees to experience their proposed pump track designs through immersive VR technology. Additionally, students will facilitate a 'Community Design Workshop,' engaging participants in hands-on activities to refine proposals collaboratively. Finally, a 'Sustainable Transport Fair' will be organized, where students present their projects alongside local environmental groups, fostering discussions on sustainable transportation and active lifestyles.
