Purpose: To turn a basic idea or interest into a feasible and effective project.

    Not all of these steps may apply, and the ideal order may vary by project.

    Recommended Steps

    Talk with other students about projects they've done
    Review online or other resources for existing local community organizations and project possibilities
    • See the topics tab of the educator's guide in Google Drive
    • See the topic ideas list here
    If they're available to advise for the amount of time you need and on a topic in which you're interested
    If they have ideas for a community organization to work with or other students to talk to about the topic
    If they've advised learners doing project work on the topic before
    If they have workable expectations for project reflection and other components
    If considering working as part of a team:
    • What kind of work needs to be done during the time you're looking to contribute?
      • What would the expectations be for you as a team member?
        • Does the likely arrangement appear workable based on your interests, skills, time availability, etc.?
        If considering adding to others' work:
        • Do the next steps and likely tasks overlap with your interests and abilities?
          • Considering time or other resource constraints, how far might you be able to move the project forward?
          If considering replicating others' work:
            • Do they recommend any tweaks to getting more out of the experience, and are those feasible?
            Note: If multiple options, check each out to identify the best fit
            Online (starting with their website): basic information including mission, staff, location, main services provided
            Interview a representative to learn things like:
            • What is the organization doing for projects and activities right now?
              • Has the organization ever worked with students? If so, in what ways? What were the outcomes?
                • Does the organization need help with any tasks that overlap with the learner's/your professional development or academic needs?
                  • Can someone on site provide an orientation, instruction, or direction and define student expectations?
                  Note: This can involve multiple meetings if integrating ideas and amending plans
                  Recommended questions if working with a partner organization:
                  • How do they feel about it?
                    • What is their experience with it?
                    How do they perceive the potential project topic and scope?
                    • Do they think it could contribute to community members' lives?
                      • Do they have suggestions for making it more effective or to prepare?
                      Recommended approaches/formats:
                      • Outline
                        • Discussion (face-to-face, email, phone, other)
                          • Project proposal paper, slideshow presentation, video, other