INSTRUCTION MANUAL

 

This is a collaborative project, which requires you to work with a group to write an instruction manual, come up with a topic, write it, and present/ demonstrate it to the class.  Each group will come up with an idea that is unique.  By this, I mean an instruction manual should not be readily available for the topic and specific focus that you choose.  Therefore, as you consider ideas, keep the audience in mind and who will be using this manual.  Ultimately, how is this manual filling a unique need or replacing another existing manual?

 

I realize group dynamics are difficult; however, you will be working in groups in a variety of situations throughout your career.  Therefore, I expect everyone in the group to participate, negotiate any problems, and, if necessary, come to me if you have any irresolvable problems. 

 

 

ASSIGNMENT REQUIREMENTS & DUE DATES

 

1.      First Group Meeting                                                              In Class; February 21, 2003

 

·         Exchange of telephone numbers and email addresses

·         Select a group leader, secretary, and designer

·         Decide on meeting place for next group meeting

·         Decide what will be completed by the next meeting

 

 

2.      Instruction Manual Memo                                                    Due 25 February 2003

 

Collaboratively write a memo detailing the focus of your group’s instruction manual.  As with the memo for each of the other projects, include all relevant details: topic, audience, purpose, reason for choosing the topic, etc. 

 

Topic must be approved by 28 Friday 2004 or arrangements must be made with the instructor for a group extension. 

 

 

3.      Conference with Instructor                                                    Due by March 10th

 

As a group, meet with me to discuss the instruction manual, the work you have completed so far, group dynamics, etc.  This meeting can take place any time before March 10th at a mutually agreeable time.  First meet as a group and decide the best times for the group to meet with me, and then give me at least three options (either by email or short memo) for available meeting times.  Waiting until the last minute reduces your chances of being able to meet before the due date, so plan in advance.

 

 

 

4.      Group Progress Reports                                                       One for Each Group Meeting

 

Indicate where your group is on the list of tasks and assigned duties.  This should be a thorough detailing of the group’s progress and the group dynamic.  This may be written by one member of the group, but all must read, approve, and initial the progress report before it is turned in.

 

The following should be documented in your group progress reports as they occur:

 

·         Decide on a topic that needs an instruction manual

·         Create a list of tasks and assign duties

·         Develop instruction manual

·         Plan for the group presentation

 

 

5.      Individual Status Memos                                                      One Per Week (to be supplemented if necessary)

 

This is the venue for discussion about the group dynamics, your status with your specific tasks, the group’s status in general, and the work load, etc.  Instead of being a forum for venting and complaints about collaborative work, any difficulties and personalities conflicts should be listed completely and portrayed fairly.  Also, include your email address on the document so I can contact you with any concerns I may have after reading your report.

 

The status report template should be used for this activity.

 

 

6.      Evaluation of Project Performance                                       Due with Final Draft

 

A detailed memo is due along with the self evaluation form.  Describe group dynamic, your role in making the project a success, etc.  More details later.  Self evaluation form available on my web site.

 

 

7.      Instruction Manual Working Draft                                       Due with Presentation

 

Instruction manuals do not need to be laminated by this date, but they should be complete in other aspects.

 

 

8.      Group Presentations                                                              Due 3/13, 3/14, 3/18

 

Each group will present their project and have another group walk-through their instruction manual in front of the class. 

 

All group members must participate in the presentation.  This is an individualized group grade (50 points), which means the final grade for this presentation will be a combination of individual participation and group interaction. 

 

9.      Revised Instruction Manual                                                 Due: Day of the Exam

 

Also due with the final instruction manual is the self evaluation form (posted to my web site).  Use any supplemental materials to record your participation on this project and how you evaluate this participation.

 

 

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NOTE

 

Every group member has the right to work with supportive and cooperative group members who complete their work and participate.  If any group member is not doing his/her tasks as assigned by the group, it is the responsibility of the team to resolve the issue and document any conflicts.  Communication is a vital element of successful collaboration. 

 

If these attempts at conflict resolutions are fair and the problem persists, it is the responsibility of the group to meet with me to discuss the problem.  If one person is not completing her/his part of the project and/or not showing up to group meetings, then the group has the right, after seeking an intervention with me and beforehand receiving my approval, to remove the individual from the group.  Anyone removed from a group will receive a zero for the collaborative aspect of the project and will have create an instruction manual individually.