At the start of his senior year, Ryan must choose a topic to research for his Senior Project. He will meet with a panel of educators and community members who will evaluate this project over the next ten months and judge his public presentation in the spring. In the video below, he proposes his topic and reveals the essential and sub-essential questions that will guide his research.
Ryan's essential question is How does one produce professional quality, original music from a home recording studio with a fixed budget? He must also answer the following sub-essential questions through his research:
- How do the current architectural features of the space affect the potential success of the studio and what additional features will be necessary?
- How does one mix rap/hiphop vocals?
By working with an outside expert, Ryan will gain exposure to a field he is passionate about and the real-world challenges that come with this line of work. He will have to engage in professional-level problem solving. Ryan has chosen an expert working in the music technology and production field in Seattle, WA to consult on his research and applied piece. They will communicate over the next ten months, helping Ryan to attain deep understanding of the technology and intricacies of producing professional-quality music.
Ryan is challenged by his panel to deepen his research and accurately define a benchmark for professional quality music. After working with his outside expert, he is surprised to find that it will take 15 revisions and more than 30 hours to produce a song that was just over three minutes long.
Ryan reflects on his project and the opportunity to explore a career before committing to a course of study in college. Hear what he has to say in this brief commentary.
Hands-on learning experiences naturally provide pathways to deeper knowledge. They also present multiple entry points, making learning accessible to every student. When students have a valued voice in their studies, self-determination and resilience take over. Concern over how long something takes, is replaced by a passion for learning and problem solving. The result is a confident, lifelong learner who experienced growth personally and academically -- one that is certainly ready for the college or career of his choosing! We wish Ryan the best of luck and thank him for participating in this project.
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