11th, 12th Grades  Project 3 weeks

Shop Superstars: Crafting Lake Katrine's Future!

Kate W
Content Expertise
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Collaboration
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Purpose

Students will engage in a dynamic, real-world learning project where they collaborate to design and implement HVAC and electrical systems, along with optimal tool and equipment layouts for a mechanic shop expansion. Through this project, students will deepen their understanding of energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety while developing essential competencies in critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. By working closely with industry partners, they will apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges, preparing them for future endeavors in related technical fields.

Learning goals

Students will collaboratively develop and refine innovative system designs and shop layouts, applying HVAC and electrical design principles to create energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions. They will employ critical thinking to explore how spatial arrangements impact workflow and safety, presenting their findings to community partners. Through peer reviews and industry expert interactions, students will enhance their communication and problem-solving skills, reflecting on their personal learning progress and diverse approaches to real-world challenges.
Competencies
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • 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.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.

Products

Students will culminate their learning experience by developing comprehensive system designs and shop layouts, which they will showcase through professional presentations. These presentations will detail their innovative solutions for the mechanic shop's expansion, including storage optimization, equipment layout, and energy-efficient system designs. Additionally, students will produce digital portfolios that document their design process, decisions, peer feedback, and individual reflections on project growth and learning.

Launch

Kick off the project with a dynamic launch event featuring a panel discussion with industry experts from Lake Katrine Lawn and Power. Encourage students to actively engage by asking insightful questions about the challenges and solutions in system design and workflow optimization. This interaction will inspire students to think critically about their projects and consider real-world applications from the onset.

Exhibition

Lake Katrine Lawn and Power will host an exhibition day where students present their system designs and shop layouts alongside practical demonstrations of their proposed solutions. Students will engage visitors with interactive displays, showcasing the thought process and innovation behind their work. Representatives from the shop, alongside local community members, will have the opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback, fostering a deeper dialogue about the students’ contributions to real-world challenges.