Do a Project Outside of Schoolwork

Summary

Engaging in a project outside of schoolwork allows students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and gain practical experience. It encourages self-directed learning, enhances problem-solving abilities, and can provide a sense of accomplishment. By working on such projects, students can build a portfolio that showcases their talents and demonstrates their initiative to future employers or academic institutions.

Resources

1. Instructables - A website filled with user-generated step-by-step guides for a variety of DIY projects.
2. Coursera - Offers courses on various subjects, including many that can help you develop skills for your project.
3. GitHub - A platform for hosting and sharing code, ideal for software development projects.
4. Maker Faire - A gathering of tech enthusiasts, crafters, and tinkerers where you can find inspiration and resources for your project.
5. Khan Academy - Provides free educational resources on a wide range of topics that can support your project work.

Example SMART Goals

1. Complete a web development project by building a personal portfolio website using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript within the next 3 months, dedicating at least 5 hours per week to it.
2. Write and self-publish a short e-book on a topic of personal interest, such as digital photography, by the end of the semester, setting aside 2 hours each weekend for writing and editing.
3. Develop a basic mobile app for budgeting within 4 months by learning and applying React Native, aiming to spend at least 3 hours per week on the project.
4. Create a video documentary on local wildlife, planning and filming over the next 5 months with a goal to release it on YouTube by the end of the school year.
5. Build a small robot using Arduino, completing different stages such as design, coding, and assembly over the next 6 months by working on it for 1 hour every weekday.

Example Habits

1. Set aside a specific time each day dedicated solely to working on the project to ensure consistent progress.
2. Keep a project journal to document ideas, progress, and any challenges faced, reflecting on it weekly to adjust plans as needed.
3. Join an online community or forum related to the project topic to exchange ideas and receive feedback.
4. Break the project into smaller, manageable tasks and set mini-deadlines to keep on track.
5. Regularly review and update a project timeline to monitor progress and make adjustments to stay aligned with your goals.