Workshop+-+Challenge+Problem+1

Workshop - Challenge Problem 1
Thursday, February 3, 2011 <>

Topic overview:
Today will be our first 'workshop' class. We will use the first half of the class to work on challenge problem #1 in groups. Feel free to bring laptop computers, iPads, etc. to help you do research during the class, if necessary, and also to record your ideas. During this workshop time the instructor will be available to discuss your group's work and you will be free to collaborate with other class members as you see fit to improve and refine your group's idea.

In the second half of the class, each group will have a brief opportunity (5-8 minutes, depending on time and number of groups) to quickly and informally present their concept to the class for feedback. The purpose of these presentations is purely to get feedback on, and improve, the concept that you are going to submit in your challenge problem #1 write-up (due at the start of the following class).

By the end of class today, you should:
 * Have a rough proposal for the solution you will submit for challenge problem #1
 * Have received feedback from your peers and the instructor on your solution idea
 * Be prepared to write a concise and compelling pitch for your idea to submit as your solution to challenge problem #1

Preparation for class:
You and your group will get a lot more out of today's session, and be much better prepared for your presentation at the end of the class, if you have spent a nontrivial amount of time on the first steps of the challenge problem. If you come into class having made no progress, either individually or as a group, you will likely have a very weak proposal to present to the class by the end of the session. Lack of preparation will also significantly reduce the value of the feedback that you get on your concept presentation.