5. Group Dynamics and Final Project#

Project Analysis and Design#

I drew inspiration from a Fab Lab project, Vermicomposting System found at Fab Academy - Daniela Félix. This project addresses the critical issue of managing organic waste efficiently while promoting sustainable practices like vermicomposting.

This exercise helped me understand how to deconstruct a problem into its root causes and cascading impacts using a problem tree. The solution tree further allowed me to map actionable steps toward achieving an objective

During our group formation session on Week 6, we were asked to bring an object that represents our topic or questions in mind. I brought a camping cutlery tool that resembles a Swiss knife but includes utensils. This object symbolizes basic needs and prompted me to question whether everyone has access to essentials like food.

As I reflected on this, I considered significant issues such as food waste and the threats to our food sources. This led me to explore topics related to agriculture.

Description of the Object and Group Questions#

During our group formation session on Week 6, we were asked to bring an object that represents our topic or questions in mind. I brought a camping cutlery tool that resembles a Swiss knife but includes utensils. This object symbolizes basic needs and prompted me to question whether everyone has access to essentials like food.

As I reflected on this, I considered significant issues such as food waste and the threats to our food sources. This led me to explore topics related to agriculture.

Object Chosen: Camping cutlery resembling a Swiss knife with utensils.

Significance of the Object#

This object symbolizes basic needs and sparked my inquiry into whether everyone has access to essentials like food.

Here are my groups objects:

Simons’ Object

Paulas’ Object

Antoines’ Object

List of Group Questions:

How can we improve water usage in agriculture?

How can we make vertical farming less expensive?

What is the role of digital fabrication in agriculture?

How can we improve access to food?

How can we avoid food waste?

How can we maximize space in agriculture?

How can we mitigate the impact of pests like Asian hornets on bees?

How can we develop simple soil testing devices for farmers?

Each group member selected a question to focus on, and I chose:

“How can we mitigate the impact of pests like Asian hornets on bees?”

Group Dynamics Tools#

Throughout this project, I learned and applied several tools for effective group dynamics

1.Round-Table Discussions#

Round-table discussions involve each group member having an equal opportunity to speak and share their views. This format ensures inclusivity and that all voices are heard, fostering a collaborative environment.

We implemented round-table discussions during our meetings to gather everyone’s ideas and perspectives. This approach allowed us to understand each member’s thoughts on the project questions and helped us make decisions collectively.

2.Ranked Voting#

Ranked voting is a decision-making process where members rank options in order of preference. It helps the group identify the most favored choice based on collective preferences, leading to fair and democratic outcomes.

We used ranked voting to select our primary project focus. Each member ranked the potential problems from most to least interested, and we tallied the results to determine the group’s direction. This method respected everyone’s opinions and streamlined the decision-making process.

3. The “Why, Why, Why…” Approach#

The “Why, Why, Why…” technique involves repeatedly asking “Why?” to delve deeper into the root causes of a problem. This method helps uncover underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent, leading to more effective solutions.

As part of the group activity, We used the “Why, Why, Why” approach to analyze the question I selected: “Comment rendre l’agriculture verticale moins chère?” (How can we make vertical farming less expensive?). Below are the layers of reasoning behind my choice:### Problematic Analysis and Documentation

Initial Ideas#

During our brainstorming sessions, our group exchanged ideas and personal experiences to identify challenges in agriculture and agroecology. Our initial ideas included:

Water Management: Optimization of irrigation systems. Pest Issues: Control of slugs and Asian hornets. Soil Health: Development of simple soil testing devices.

Research and Expert Consultation#

We reached out to professors specializing in agroecology to get advice and feedback on the problems we identified.

We connected with practitioners to understand the practical challenges they face, particularly concerning pests like the Asian hornet.

List of Identified Problems#

Water Management

Optimization of Drip Irrigation Systems: Drip irrigation saves water, especially during droughts. We considered improvements for urban gardens and farms.

Pest Issues

Asian Hornets (Vespa velutina) Asian hornets threaten bees, endangering urban beekeeping. Existing traps are often basic and ineffective. An improved trap would be valuable.

Slugs Slugs damage crops, especially vegetables. However, their reduced activity in winter makes testing solutions challenging during this season.

Soil Analysis

Devices for Soil Testing: Farmers need simple tools to measure soil pH or perform slake tests to assess soil stability. A straightforward, consumable-free tool would be practical.

Comments on Potential Problems#

Slug Control: Lower temperatures reduce slug activity, making it difficult to implement and test an effective solution during this period.

Asian Hornet Traps: Although Asian hornets are less active in winter, we can design and prototype traps in preparation for active seasons.

Drip Irrigation Systems: Water needs are constant, allowing for testing and evaluation of prototypes year-round.

Soil Analysis: Testing devices can be evaluated in the lab or field without seasonal dependence.

Criteria for Final Choice#

Testability Under Current Conditions: Can we test the solution now?

Relevance of the Problem: Is the problem significant and can we gather meaningful results?

Feasibility and Resources: Is the solution simple to make and test within the Fab Lab’s timelines and resources?

Innovation Potential: Does the proposed solution offer improvements over existing options?

Introspection and Experience#

Transition from Individual Work to Group Dynamics#

Moving from individual work to group dynamics was a significant shift for me. Instead of working independently and figuring things out on my own, I found myself collaborating with others who shared similar interests in agriculture and environmental issues. This transition required adapting to new communication styles and collective decision-making processes.

Challenges Faced#

One of the main challenges was finding group members who had the same interest in focusing on specific agricultural problems. Aligning our ideas took effort, and we had to ensure that everyone’s perspectives were considered in shaping our project’s direction.

What I Enjoyed About the Process#

I enjoyed discovering different topics and learning about each other’s personal interests. It was rewarding to find common ground with peers who are passionate about agriculture, ecology, and sustainable solutions. The collaborative environment allowed us to combine our strengths and ideas, leading to a more comprehensive project approach.

How Collaboration Influenced My Perspective#

Collaboration broadened my understanding of the complexities involved in agricultural challenges and ecosystem management. By working together, we explored various aspects such as pest control, sustainable practices, and the role of technology in ecological solutions. This collective effort enriched our project and highlighted the value of diverse viewpoints.