I am now wrapping up my project. After finishing my research last week, I started my presentation. It really taught me so much about my learning style and research in general. So, I have decided to share my experience here.
What was my favorite part of my topic?
I have always had an interest in architecture. The art of designing a space for both functionality and visual enjoyment. I especially love the works of Renzo Piano and Philip Johnson. Their stunning works of steel and glass were what led me into design in the first place. I really loved working on spaces that took their influence, but adding my personal flair really let me open up and turn the project into passion.
What was my least favorite part of my topic?
Like all art, in architecture, you can not do what has already been done. Looking at hundreds upon hundreds of city skylines led to a good outcome, but the time was definitely tiring.
What did I like best about the 'genius hour' project?
I love the concept of genius hour. A project allowing students to work on whatever they choose, providing a productive outcome, gives a professional feel to the classroom similar to if I were at a firm, allowed to create whatever I want, not knowing if it will please the client or not.
What did I like least about the project?
Although I did like the professional feel to the research, a professional deadline is not one of my favorite things. While the project was fun, I feel it was cut very short by both the deadline given and the end of the school year. My only suggestion about the project is that maybe next year it would be given at the beginning of the year and students would be allowed to work whenever they choose, allowing for much deeper research and an amazing presentation at the end of the year.
What have I learned about myself these past four weeks?
I am a very curious person. When I set my mind to something, I could quite possibly learn anything and everything there is to know about it, allowed the time and will. Sometimes I let this take over me, not taking the time to write blog entries until the last day or putting off well-earned sleep for a few good hours of research.
I've been thinking about doing that very thing--introducing the Genius Hour information during first nine weeks, and having the presentations around the middle of the fourth nine weeks, or maybe even towards the very end. I do think it would allow students more time to really dive deep. Those who procrastinate would find themselves in hot water, but those who dig at their topic on a regular basis would have more time. Thanks for the great reflections, Toby! We'll definitely miss you next year here at GPFAA!
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