Lesson 1.1: What an Extended Project Is and What Forms It Takes

Introduction

Welcome to Lesson 1.1 of the Foundation Extended Project course. In this lesson, students, we will explore the concept of an extended project, which is one of the most significant academic tasks you will undertake. The aim of this lesson is to help you understand what an extended project is, the different forms it can take, and how it differs from regular coursework. By the end of this lesson, you should have a clear grasp of the essential elements involved in selecting your project and what it entails to work independently but with supervision.

Learning Objectives

Understand the extended project as a substantial, self-directed, supervised piece of independent work.
Familiarize yourself with the two types of project forms: a dissertation-style report or investigation, and an artefact accompanied by a supporting report.
Distinguish how the extended project is different from a typical essay or coursework.
Understand the practical meaning of "independent but supervised" over the project duration.
Review examples of successful projects from both business and science pathways.

What is an Extended Project?

An extended project is a substantial piece of academic work that provides you with the opportunity to explore a topic of your choice in depth. It typically involves initiating a research question, conducting research, and presenting your findings. The goal of an extended project goes beyond mere completion; it aims to foster skills in research, analysis, and critical evaluation that are essential in higher education and beyond.

Characteristics of an Extended Project

Independence: Although you will receive guidance from a supervisor, much of the project work is self-directed. This independence challenges you to take ownership of your learning process.
Depth of Inquiry: Extended projects require thorough research and exploration of a topic, allowing for in-depth understanding and the development of original arguments or creative outputs.
Evaluation Criteria: Projects are often assessed based on how well students meet the stated objectives, the depth of research conducted, and the clarity of the presentation.

Types of Extended Projects

There are generally two project forms you may choose from:

1. Dissertation-Style Report or Investigation

A dissertation-style project is a written report that involves conducting research on a specific topic. This format typically includes the following:

Introduction: Set the context for your research question and explain its significance.
Literature Review: Summarize existing research related to your topic, highlighting gaps in knowledge or areas for further inquiry.
Methodology: Explain the research methods used for collecting data, such as surveys, experiments, or archival research.
Results: Present your findings clearly, using charts and graphs where applicable.
Discussion: Analyze your results, discussing their implications and how they relate to your original question.
Conclusion: Summarize key findings and suggest areas for future research.

Example of Dissertation-Style Project

Research Question: How does social media affect adolescent mental health?

Outline:

Introduction: Explore the rise of social media and its relevance to adolescents.
Literature Review: Summarize studies that link social media use to various mental health outcomes.
Methodology: Conduct a survey among adolescents regarding social media habits and mental health indicators.
Results: Analyze survey data to identify trends.
Discussion: Discuss how findings align with or contradict previous studies.
Conclusion: Reflect on the overall impact of social media and propose recommendations for parents and educators.

2. Artefact and Supporting Report

The second type of project allows students to create an artefact—this could be anything from a piece of artwork to a prototype of a product—accompanied by a written report. The report justifies your creative choices and reflects on the process.

Example of Artefact Project

Artefact: A prototype of a sustainable water filtration system.

Outline of Supporting Report:

Introduction: Describe the need for sustainable water solutions.
Research: Gather information on water filtration technologies and materials.
Design and Construction: Discuss the design process and materials used in creating the prototype.
Testing and Results: Analyze the prototype's effectiveness at filtering water.
Conclusion: Evaluate the project and discuss its potential for real-world application.

How an Extended Project Differs from Regular Coursework

Depth of Study

Unlike traditional coursework, extended projects allow you to engage deeply with a subject. Regular essays often require a surface-level exploration of given topics, while extended projects encourage you to explore novel ideas or innovative solutions.

Independence

In coursework, tasks are often more structured, with specific guidelines to follow. Extended projects require you to formulate your own questions, plan your approach, and manage your time effectively to complete the project.

Assessment Criteria

Assessment for extended projects often weighs more heavily on how you approached your research and communicated your findings, rather than merely the final product. You may also be assessed on your reflection throughout the process, which is not typically a criterion for standard essays.

Independent but Supervised

The phrase "independent but supervised" reflects a key aspect of the extended project experience. Here's what you need to know:

Supervision: You will have a dedicated supervisor who will provide guidance and support as needed, helping to ensure you remain on track.
Autonomy: You are responsible for driving your own project forward—selecting your question, conducting research, and deciding how to present your findings.
Checkpoints: Regular meetings with your supervisor will help you stay accountable and provide opportunities to receive feedback on your progress.

Examples of Completed Projects

Business Route Example

Project Title: Analyzing the marketing strategies of small businesses in a digital age.

Artefact: A detailed marketing plan for a hypothetical small business, emphasizing digital platforms.
Includes comprehensive research on target demographics and comparisons of traditional vs. digital marketing strategies.

Science Route Example

Project Title: Investigating the effects of different fertilizers on plant growth.

Report: A detailed investigation exploring types of fertilizers, their chemical makeup, and their effects on various plant species.
Results are drawn from a conducted experiment that includes data on plant height difference over specific periods.

Conclusion

In this lesson, students, you have explored the concept of an extended project, its forms, and how it differs from regular coursework. Understanding these components is integral to successfully scoping your project and formulating a focused question or title. As you embark on this journey, remember the importance of independent inquiry and the role of your supervisor in guiding you toward a successful project.

Study Notes

An extended project is an independent, substantial academic task.
Two project forms: dissertation-style report and artefact with a supporting report.
Differences from standard coursework include the depth of inquiry and independence.
Supervision involves guidance but allows personal direction.
Review successful projects for inspiration and ideas.