Approach Creative Project
Introduction
Students design an activity which solves the problem outlined during the class. They are supposed to implement the final outcome of their work. An example of final product:

  • an article to be published in newspapers and magazines
  • setting up dedicated website with research outcomes: ranking list of eco friendly cars
  • formulating bids and drafts for citizens budget in the city
  • providing free trainings for companies
  • providing activities for children
  • producing a leaflet
  • producing a theatre performance

One of the most valuable aspects of this approach is that it is based on real-life challenges or problems. . Students are expected to think of creative solutions to the problem. It is also important to find some subjective outcomes – what we have achieved by this project for other people and for ourselves.

Aim To increase the quality of teamwork and students’ ability to carry out a real-life project.
Target group Students of any field of study
Intended learning outcome
  • Enhanced ability to carry out project work,
  • More able to collaborate and function in teams,
  • Enhanced skills in communication,  decision making,
  • Increased sense of personal and social responsibility and citizenship at local and global level
Description
Follow the steps:

  1. The staff member begins by giving a talk about a specific problem or challenge in, for example,  the area of work/labour/job – the specific challenge or problem could be about finding a job, job migration, mobbing or burnout for example.
  2. Students then team up, decide on the specific problem or challenge they want to tackle, and make a work plan defining what they will do and agreeing deadlines for themselves.
  3. Students then try to find creative solutions to the problem, searching for solutions that are new, non-standard and which are of benefit to those affected by the problem/issue.
  4. Students carry out their plan in practice.
  5. Students share the results of the project with all the group.
  6. Students evaluate the project.

During the process, as task leader, you act as a mentor in the first phase, providing a framework, topics and issues to be solved in the specific area. During the second phase, your role changes to one of coach, stimulating students to question, to be creative in their solutions, helping them to make connections and overcome any possible obstacles.

Preparation The teaching staff member provides topics and issues to be solved in specific subject areas.
Required resources and equipment Based on research and knowledge of current issues in the specific field, online work.
Success factors This approach requires a high level of engagement on the part of students as well as their willingness to learn independently. It also requires a considerable level of passion and involvement on the part of the teaching staff.
Advantages Creative projects increase the quality of teamwork and students’ ability to carry out a real-life project.
Disadvantages It can be challenging for students to share work and be responsible for their part.
Additional information

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Creative Project (295 downloads) Creative Project LV (281 downloads)
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