Lesson Plan 12

Iteration

Note: How many iterations the students want to do is up to you and them. We suggest doing at least 1-2 rounds of iterations.
  • Objective:

To help students understand the importance of iteration in maker projects

  • Resources:

Data from testing, prototypes

  • Time: 45 Min
  • Opening (10 mins):
  • Highlight the Value of Unexpected Outcomes: Emphasize the importance of noting unexpected outcomes or results. These surprising findings can lead to innovative ideas, alternative approaches, or new perspectives that students might not have considered initially.
  • Explain the concept of iteration, which involves making adjustments and refinements based on testing and feedback. Define Iteration: Begin by providing a clear definition of the concept of iteration. Explain that iteration refers to the process of repeating a cycle or a series of steps with the purpose of making adjustments and refinements to a design based on testing and feedback.
  • Emphasize the Iterative Nature of Design: Highlight that design is rarely a linear process, and iterations are a natural part of it. Explain that initial designs are rarely perfect and that iterations allow for continuous improvement and refinement.

Show this video: https://youtu.be/Obyqku2vWc4

  • Showcase Real-World Examples (15 min):
Provide real-world examples of iterative design processes. This could include examples from various fields such as product design, software development, or engineering. Highlight how iterations have led to significant improvements in products or solutions.
Eg. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1fk4PESip9o
  • Discuss the Benefits of Iteration (10 min):
  • Continuous Improvement: Explain that iterations allow designers to continuously improve their prototypes by addressing identified issues and enhancing desirable features.
  • User-Centered Design: Emphasize that iterations help designers create solutions that better meet the needs and expectations of the end-users, leading to improved user experiences.
  • Problem-Solving and Innovation: Discuss how iterations provide opportunities for problem-solving and innovation by encouraging students to think creatively, try different approaches, and explore new ideas.
  • Explain the Iterative Cycle (10 min):
  • Test: Describe that the cycle begins with testing the prototype to gather data and insights.
  • Analyze: Explain that students then analyze the testing results and feedback to identify areas for improvement and potential design modifications.
  • Refine: Instruct students to make adjustments, refinements, or design changes based on the analysis and identified areas for improvement.
  • Test Again: Encourage students to conduct subsequent tests with the refined prototype to evaluate the effectiveness of the modifications and gather further insights.
  • Repeat: Explain that this iterative cycle continues until the desired objectives are met or the project reaches its completion.
  • Emphasize the Learning Process (5 min):

Highlight that iteration is not solely about making the design better, but also about the valuable learning experience gained through each iteration. Encourage students to view iterations as opportunities for growth, learning from failures, and embracing new ideas.

 

  • Conclusion (5 mins):
  • Summarize the key points covered in the session, highlighting the importance of testing, feedback, and iteration in the design process.
  • Remind students that iteration is a continuous process, and they should be open to further improvements and refinements as they progress with their maker projects.

Optional Lessons

Working with Materials