Another way we accomplish this is by using a design library which includes both student and expert designs. To help students who were designing without scientific justification, we helped students conduct an analysis of their design. By asking students to evaluate and predict the performance of their houses, we provide an impetus for further reflection and another chance for students to apply their science principles about heat flow and light energy to their own designs. Additionally, through common evaluation, students develop shared criteria to measure their designs against common standards. Foster effective sharing When students work together on designs, they can join a rich social context that often blossoms into productive discussions and mutually improved understanding.
Students get valuable practice acting in different design roles.
Yet, for students who are less confident or engaged, collaborative groups can stifle rather than support. Additionally, some students take collaborative tasks as a chance to let their partners do the work. Additionally, the focus on evidence requires students to justify design ideas even if they are appropriated from others. Summary Design projects can help students link and connect ideas when carefully designed. These projects must be carefully designed to foster student knowledge integration in the context of the instructional domain.