Term Project Specifics

  General

Term projects are required and count as a significant part of the final grade. Term projects differ from a term paper in that an activity other than writing is required. Constructing a physical display or model is clearly a project, but others tend to be more abstract.

A physical project might approach the level of senior design, but lack the time and funding those projects usually have. Past projects have ranged from solar cookers (no more of those please), solar distilling of polluted water (effectively didn't work), etc. I often do judging in the local science fairs for 6-12th grade, and I expect projects from you that exceed what they do.

For example, preparing a report for distribution to the general public or school students goes beyond writing and deals with the planning and dissemination of information about renewable energy (or other energy issues); writing is just a part of it. In this case, you would make arrangements with University Park Elementary School, Stone Middle School, or Palm Bay High School (all nearby) to distribute the information to a class and present/discuss it with the students.

In 2007, the class prepared an assessment report on campus sustainability that was provided to President Catanese. This year, an assessment of the university's carbon footprint would be excellent.

  Appropriateness

Term projects must be based primarily on renewable energy principles, energy issues, education, or advocacy.

No project will be accepted that is illegal, advocates illegal or questionable activity or advocacy, or would reflect unfavorably on Florida Tech, its faculty, staff, or students. My decision is final.

  Status Reports

Occasionally, a written project status report will be required as homework, and will be scored as homework. Usually, scoring is based upon content and timeliness. Turn it in on time, even if you think it needs more work.

Include four "milestones" that are points of project completion. Either they are complete or they are not. The status changes, but the milestones do not.

  Details

Plan your project early in the course and get it approved by the instructor.

  Preparation

Start your project early in the term. Don't delay and run out of time to complete it.

  Completion, Grading, etc.

Grading is based upon a weighted scale, and the final score counts 10% of grade.

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Miscellaneous/termprojects.htm updated 080204