Casey Design Club: Week 7

This was our final week at Casey for design club. Overall, I feel like the entire process was a success as all of the kids seemed to enjoy themselves and did in fact learn a lot about sustainability. As we finished up all of the models the students had started the two weeks prior, CU students encircled the group and took down comments and interviews on film. The students explained their models to the camera and were able to point out the multiple elements of sustainable design in their models. We were able to finish up all of the models today, as well as get the green roof designs completed. We even tested a couple of the green roof designs that had irrigation systems in place, and they worked, as planned, to perfection, as well as the amusement of the Casey students. Afterwards, we gathered all the students to complete a comprehensive survey the contained a multitude of questions spanning the course, which covered their feelings about the after school program in general. The results, at least from what I saw, were that the kids enjoyed their time with us, as well as in the after school program, especially towards the end of the course when they were able to get hands-on with design. Next week we look forward to presenting both the CU projects with faculty and personnel, as well as presenting with the Casey students work to Casey and parents/faculty.

Columbine this week, however, was not such a bright turnout, as many of the younger students seemed easily drawn off task with an absent teacher. However, at least for my group, we were able to finish up our sustainable communities within our group. I was even able to draw out a few original ideas from my kids on what they could do in their communities to achieve a more sustainable site. Next week should be back to normal, however, as their teacher will be back in charge and should prove positive in allowing us to wrap up out models with the Columbine students.

-Ian