It’s a hole in one for Year 7s mini golf project.

During semester 2, Year 7 technology classes worked collaboratively to design and make a mini golf course tailored for junior school students.

Firstly, to understand the golfing aspirations of younger children, Year 7s formed small groups and conducted interviews with junior school students.

They collated the answers and got to work to create a cohesive theme that the team could produce.

Technology Teacher, Jarrod Johnson said the project was a positive way to develop a range of skills including teamwork, woodworking, and completing a design project based on a ‘client brief’.

“The students worked in groups of five from across all classes. They used the same engineering book that allowed them to track progress, write notes to each other, create their designs, and reflect on the team’s progress. I reviewed the engineering books, read the notes, and could see the evolution of ideas taking place.”

At the beginning of Term 4, the children took delight in seeing their colourful and innovative creations come to life.

During Week 2, the course was a welcomed feature on the grassed area outside the Nicholls Building adjacent to South Terrace.

Junior school students were invited to play through the obstacle holes and enjoy a mini golf course designed especially for them.

Jarrod said the students received wonderful feedback from enthusiastic participants. “One ELC student asked if it could be set up again next week”.

Year 7 Student, Elle Dodd, who designed a surfboard obstacle said, “it was a lot of fun and I got to learn a lot about woodworking and working with a client”.

The Asynchronous Group methodology encourages students to learn about critical and creative thinking, project management, and teamwork. The design process and working with the younger students developed skills around working to a brief and the business customer relationship. Overall, the project provided an authentic and creative learning opportunity.