Intermediate VCAL Personal Best Presentation Night
I recently read an article about the rapidly evolving nature of workplaces and a significant change in thinking about performance and motivation in the workplace. The research listed motivating factors and interestingly, money was far down the list, but suggested the three biggest factors motivating individuals within their workplaces were autonomy, purpose and mastery:
- Autonomy - being self-directed, rather than simply compliant
- Purpose - the desire to do something that has meaning and is important
- Mastery - the urge and ability to get better skills, to see your potential as being unlimited, and constantly seek to improve.
The Personal Best Project builds on this idea – it is a self-directed task where students have the opportunity to negotiate a project of their choice. Students develop their vision for a project that links their interests, vocation and skills.
In the initial stages of the project, students work with teachers, mentors, and their peers to acquire knowledge and develop the skills needed to complete the project. Stage two of the project involves the practical work. During this phase, students source and order equipment and materials and work to make or do their projects. Students are required to document their progress, reflect on their learning and maintain evidence of their work.
On Tuesday evening, while their VCE counterparts were studying for exams, the Intermediate VCAL students formally presented their projects in McAuley Hall to an audience of their classmates and parents. There was a range of projects including a motorised off-road buggy, a cubby house, furniture, artwork, activities, cookbooks and computers. The effort and execution of skill demonstrated by the projects was impressive and all students should be commended for their excellent presentations outlining their ideas, progress, challenges and significant learning.
