Symposium Challenge Overview




In preparation for Symposium 2014, this timely but brief challenge invited K-16 educators and students to kick-off the school year with a stimulating and pivotal design learning experience.

The Makings of an Extraordinary Challenge

Learners investigated and learned from extraordinary individuals of historical importance who have embraced growth/fixed mindsets as evidenced in their work from multiple perspectives: art, design, the humanities, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics).



During Symposium 2014 working sessions, participants examined Steps 1-3 of students’ mid-course work and current perceptions. Using initial formative assessment data, we studied critical areas of student struggle and fundamental learning elements such as levels of engagement, along with readiness to apply empathy, growth mindset dispositions, decision making patterns, creative problem solving process.

PRE-CHALLENGE INSTRUCTIONS
In total, this insightful challenge should take about five 50-minute periods (more or less).
  • Please feel free to use examples on the project website or develop your own Extraordinary Growth Mindset Challenge as related to upcoming curriculum in your classroom. 

  • Choose 1-3 extraordinary people for students to focus on – based on time available, grade level, and student learning needs. One extraordinary person is recommended.

  • Adjust timing of Steps 1-5 based on what works best for you and your students.

  • After the symposium, please consider ways in which to adjust or enhance your instruction as students complete Steps 4 and 5.

  • Highlights of your students’ design learning challenge final projects will be gladly posted on the project website: www.designlearning.us