Process
Choose the Team
The first step also happened to be the most important. I sort of knew 3 people in my class, so I reached out and formed the team. Because I was the common link, I became an unofficial leader with logistics and the project management. It helped that we all had similar goals and varying skill sets.
Research
Independently, we researched different ideas and past experiments. We then met up to discuss all of the options. The team decided to use an old exam question as a base, and conduct a real experiment.
Experiment
We bought the supplies, met up, and jumped right into it. After some initial issues with measurements and the form of data collection, we ran through our tests. We dropped a metal cylinder into six different fluids in hopes of deriving the differing viscosity.
Allocate
As a team, we tried to optimize each section by putting people at their strengths. Each person had their assign tasks, but we also overlapped. We were a team and the end result was the biggest concern; therefore, we balanced logistics, managed class schedules, and helped each other.
Execute
After a few weeks of collaboration and shifting roles, we completed the calculations and the presentation formats. My primary task was the video creation, but assisted on the written report and calculations. We received an 'A' for the project.
Learned
Project Organization
The Importance of Communication
Leadership is an Attitude/ Personality
Balancing Priorities
iMovie
Relationships Lead to Better Work