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Image of Mindmap created to assist Arjun with his issue that he experiences within weekends.

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Arjun had expressed to me that he had experienced issues specifically around how he spends his time during the weekends. He stated that during the weekends, he often wakes up late. This issue creates various complications for him during the day such as, not being able to be as productive as he wants during the day as he cannot perform as many tasks with the limited amount of time rest in the day, as well as he is sometimes late to events that he has to attend to due to his poor sleeping habit skills. After further investigation, it was found that the main cause of this issue was Arjun's habit of going to bed late the previous night. Through creating the mindmap of his problem, and delving into every important aspect that would help me make a solution, I was able to find out what Arjun would have needed and this significantly assisted me with creating my solution.

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My name is Max Ha, and this is a little about me:

Interests and Passions

1. Basketball:

I’ve been playing basketball since I was young. It's not just a sport for me; it’s a way to connect with friends and stay fit. I love the thrill of competition and the discipline it instills in me. Playing on a team teaches me the importance of collaboration and trust.

2. Leadership:

I am deeply interested in developing my leadership skills. I believe that effective leadership is about inspiring others and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued. I often seek opportunities to lead group projects in school and participate in community service initiatives, where I can practice these skills.

3. Music:

Music is a huge part of my life. I enjoy listening to various genres, but I have a particular fondness for hip-hop and R&B. I also dabble in playing the guitar, which has become a creative outlet for me. Music helps me relax and express my emotions.

4. Fashion:

Fashion allows me to express my personality. I enjoy keeping up with trends and experimenting with different styles. I believe that how we present ourselves can impact how we are perceived, and I take pride in my appearance.

Ambitions:

I am currently focused on excelling in school, with a goal of achieving high grades. I want to acquire essential entrepreneurship skills, as I aspire to start my own business one day. I’m particularly interested in sustainable business practices that can positively impact the community.

Values:

I strive to maintain a positive outlook on life, even when faced with challenges. I find it frustrating when people lack faith in others or dismiss their dreams. I firmly believe in the power of support and encouragement. My goal is to create a nurturing environment for my peers, where we can all pursue our aspirations together.

In summary, I am a passionate individual with a keen interest in sports, leadership, music, and fashion. I am dedicated to my personal growth and aim to inspire those around me, fostering a community of support and ambition.

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Finalising our idea for the Spin-off project

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Finalising our idea for the Spin-off project

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For the spin-off project, our group settled on the broad issue of the lack of social awareness and harmony within Adelaide's neighbourhoods. We researched that this was an issue that impacted a notable percentage of Australians and led to issues such as anxiety and loneliness which is something that we aim to solve. Furthermore, we created our solution which was an app where individuals can build their profile and input their interests and hobbies, allowing the app to utilise Ai to find and match people from the area with the same hobbies and suggest to them new friendships. This app will alos be able to set up suggested hangouts based on the interests of the individuals.

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Through Term 1, my Action Project group has been working on an assignment that assists in designing a product to solve an issue within the Glenunga area. Our group had noticed that a major issue within Glenunga is that the residents were not as connected as they could be, and through research, we investigated that a noticeable percentage of Australians did not know their neighbours. With this issue, we created an empathy map to further investigate the causes of the issues assisting us to construct a solution. The solution that our group had developed, briefly, is an app where users from the same suburb are matched together through their shared common interests and hobbies and are encouraged to talk to one another and set up meetups in order to know each other within the neighbourhoods better. My initial thoughts behind this spin-off project is that it has significantly developed my critical and creative thinking skills as I was required to source for various problems and then single out a specific one, requiring me to utilise decision-making skills on what problem I was interested in solving the most. I then had to utilise critical and creative thinking to analyse the issue further and produce a solution that was practical and efficient. So far, my initial thoughts about this spin-off project are that it will prepare me for other assignments within AP. Although our group is currently doing well in producing the solution, we still need to investigate a few factors before we continue such as what problems (such as security and validation concerns) our app may have and how can they be solved. We need to solve these problems to ensure our app is of the highest quality. Additionally, our app has a few features currently but we are deciding to add more features to suit people's needs, to do this, our group will utilise surveys to find out what people struggle with most within our issue and ask them what they would like to see as a solution. The most intriguing factor about this issue is how individuals can live next to someone or around people for years and not know these people, and the potential issues it can cause, which is the reason why our group decided to solve this issue. Currently, I'm concerned about the number of issues that our solution may still embed and if we can solve all of them. This concerns me as it means that if there are constraints, our productivity won't be as effective. The presentation technique that has been most effective for my group is the empathy map as it utilises a useful layout in order for our team to investigate the issue deeper.

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This is an image of one of my slide shows that showcases a schedule on how Arjun could use it to make his day my productive. 

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The Solution to Arjun's problems on the weekend

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The Solution to Arjun's problems on the weekend

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Subsequent to investigating Arjun's issue, I decided that the best solution for him was to create a schedule where he could plan what he would do in a day and ensure that he goes to bed at the correct time and could be more productive.

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Within our Spin-off Project, our group worked well in various areas. Every member of our group contributed to the idea of the problem, as we all experienced the same problem of not interacting with our neighbours and the people within our community. We then worked together well to analyse the problem through constructing the empathy map, which gave us all a better understanding of what the people facing this problem/users of our product would need. We then gathered ideas for the solution and created the script and presentation together. However, I believe that the area that our group worked well the most in was during filming, as that was when we were able to publically showcase our collaboration the strongest and letting everyone be in the video as well as film, helped us achieve our results more efficiently as well as showcased our high quality of collaborative skills. Although our Spin-Off project in my opinion, was a success and showcases our group's best efforts, there were still some areas where our project could have been improved. For example, although we did utilise emotive language and expressed a wide range of emotions within our body language and speech in the infomericial, some music could be used in order to express the emotions we want to convey more (.e.g, sad music within the sad areas of the video). Additionally, we could have included interviews within our infomercial to showcase the widespread use of our product to further encourage the viewer to view our solution. An element of collaboration that I believed we were extremely strong in was our commitment to purpose as a team, because within this project, everyone had a role, everyone was striving to achieve something and that improved the quality and efficiency of our final product. I don't believe there are any other improvements that we could have made towards collaboration as I believe that our collaboration was to the highest level as everyone was able to communicate their ideas and everyones ideas were taken in consideration. Persuasive techniques were a major element that helped us showcase the high-quality of our infomerical. The first technique that we used was creating an anecdote, where we had a real-life situation of an individual experiencing our problem. This was effective as it provides an preview of what our solution will fix and also explains how this problem is relevant and practical. We then utilised statistics in order to showcase the credibility and research that was undertaken in order to make our solution, prompting the viewer to believe the information that we were stating. We then employed emotional language around the impacts of our problem to give the effect that our problem is severe, intriguing the viewer. Furthermore, we utilised various images that displayed our solution, showcasing how it functions, allowing the reader to know that our team has actually developed a functioning solution. Likewise, humour was used in order to ease and create a friendly atmosphere within our infomerical. The last impactful persuasive technique was the use of repetition where we repeated our slogan 'Connect, Engage and Belong', this simple yet catchy slogan was developed in order to prevent the viewer from forgetting our product and what is aims to achieve.

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Within this lesson (17/03/2025), our group consisting of Arjun and I have brainstormed various problems that we believed have caused major issues within the globe. Although we had brainstormed numerous potential problems for the sectors of Environment, Social Enterprise, Health & well-being, Learning/Education and Community Development, at the end of the lesson, we were the most interested in the problems that revolved around the environment or learning/education as these two sectors are aspects that we find interesting and desire to complete more research about in order to finalise an issue that our INNOV8 project can revolve around. We had addressed our problems starting with "How might we" statements as although we were not starting to develop a solution yet, this technique assists our minds in being in a space where if we need to, we have ideas for solutions, as well as it helps us narrow down on a specific problem instead of a broad category of issues.

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Within the second lesson of Week 8 (18/03/2025), our group decided to begin narrowing down our problems in order to finalise a specific issue that our INNOV8 project could focus on. Through research and delving into our personal experiences, we decided that the issues around education had resonated with us the most, and we believe that it would also resonate with parents to a high level (as the majority of parents care about their kid's education). Through research, we found that millions of children across the globe do not have access to education due to various factors, a primal factor being income where parents do not have enough money to fund their children's education. Education, we believe, is a crucial aspect of an individual's life (especially during the ages of adolescence when the brain develops the most) which is why find this issue to be extremely interesting and desire to find a solution to it. Because of this, whilst going through our list of problems, we discovered two issues that collated with the problem we wanted to solve, "How might we assist students or individuals who have talent but don’t have a chance to showcase their abilities"

and "How might we make learning more accessible for students in poverty?". These twoproblemsm we believe are complementary to each other, which is why we decided to combine them into one specific problem that we could revolve our INNOV8 Project around. This problem questions "How might we create opportunities for talented students from low-income backgrounds to showcase their abilities and make learning more accessible for them?"

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Within this lesson, we were divided into a groups of 3 and required to choose a category, uncover a problem from this category and develop a solution for this issue. Our group chose the category of education as we planned to utilise this mini activity to work on our INNOV8 project further. With the collaboration of our group, we were able to come up with a brief idea of a service that assists in providing opportunities to families with low-income who have children with great potential to connect with exclusive learning programs/opportunities. Within this program, we plan for students to apply their current skills, and we will admit some into our program, who we believe have extremely high potential, where we will provide them with scholarship opportunities to afford high educational opportunities and additionally, assist them with funding for extra-curriculars. We then decided on how we were going to be able to fund money for this service, which we have decided to acquire from donations and from the government (however, this is still in progress, as the possibility of this remains questionable). Furthermore, we were given some prompts, such as including transport within our product, where we decided to provide bus and plane services throughout Australia to assist these students who are accepted into our program, and reach out to us where we are based in Adelaide. With this brief idea of the solution, we made a poster detailing our service.

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At home, Arjun and I decided to develop an empathy map of our issue over the weekend because we had free time. Within this, we did a deep analysis of the issue of how low-income families struggle with having access to high-end educational, extra-curricular, and job experience opportunities \and how this heavily impacts students who have major potential but do not have the finances to showcase their full potential. We delved into our target audience, which was a range of groups, what influences and constraints led to this issue experienced by the family and students, as well as what they need to solve their issue, as well as how they feel about the issue (what emotions they experience. By analysing these sectors deeply, our group is now able to form a clear picture of our problem and work on developing a solution clearly.

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Within the ‘Redesigning my friend’s Weekend’ task, I uncovered that the most useful tool that assisted me in providing a solution for Arjun was the utilisation of an Empathy Map. This tool was significantly useful as it provided a strong and clear template that let me develop a deep analysis on Arjun’s issue of waking up late and being unproductive. It allowed me to tackle the root cause of the problem, which is his sleeping late, and by doing this, I was able to establish a tailored solution. Within this task, I was able to develop my 5Cs in various ways. Within the communication and collaboration aspect, I was able to develop this as this task required collaboration with Arjun to be able to communicate effectively by breaking apart his issue. Furthermore, I was required to collaborate and communicate with Arjun in constructing the solution to ensure that my idea matched with his comfort. Critical and Creative Thinking was also a C that I believed I had developed within this activity, as I was required to utilise critical thinking to analyse the problem Arjun was dealing with a perform research and judgement to develop a creative solution for him. I am proud that I was able to develop my critical and creative thinking skills, as I believe that it is an aspect I’ll need to focus on building this year. Despite these successes, there were some areas tat were challenging for me within the process of this task, such as ensuring that my speaking and my presentation were clear. Because I didn’t utilise a script, I presented by knowing the problem and solution off by heart, although at some points, I believe I wasn’t clear within my presentation which is something I still aim to overcome.

Within the re-designing weekend task, I think I did well, however, I still believe that there were some aspects that I could improve on. Subsequent to completing the 'Re-designing Arjun's weekend presentation', I had feelings of anxiety where I knew that I was required to develop my already existing skills and more skills in order for me to perform better in further projects.

What problems did I encounter during the process of presenting this project?

Reflecting on the project, a major problem that I believed I encountered was not being able to communicate my ideas clearly, as I had noticed that often, I was not able to get to my point as efficiently as I could. This negatively impacts my speech as it loses the focus of my audience and potentially confuses them.

How do you feel about this piece of work? What parts of it do you particularly like? Dislike? Why? What

did/do you enjoy about this piece or work?

The parts of the presentation that I particularly liked were the ideas I was able to come up in order to fix Arjun's problem, however, I did not enjoy my presentation skills as i believe I was not able to communicate my ideas clearly and this has lead me to conclude that presenting is an aspect I need to improve on.

In what ways was your work or process similar?

My work was similar to other groups, as various other groups had created a presentation and had a pitch; however, something that I did do differently was presenting off by heart and not reading off a script, which emphasises my understanding of my project. In the future, however, I believe I can add an element that is more interesting compared to other groups, which will add more engagement within my audience. I believe I can do this by having more visual displays and maybe making my presentation interactive.

One thing I would like to improve upon is ...?

One thing that I would like to improve on is to make my presentations more appealing to the audience in order to make it clearer what I want to talk about within the presentations. In order to do this, I believe that I could make my slides provide more in-depth information instead of being so brief within the redesign a friends weekend project.

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Subsequent to finalising our problem, our group was required to further expand on the issue. In order to do this, an empathy map was required to be developed from our issue. We believed that empathy would be useful as it would assist us in developing empathy for individuals who are impacted by the problem to be able to delve into their position, analyse from their perspective, and further explore the inner causes and impacts of the issue. Within this empathy map, we explored who the key groups of people our chosen problem had impacted, what influences and constraints (factors) that cause the issue of isolation from their neighhbourhood, what feelings they may have developed because of this and how are those feelings negative to them, and what they would need/look for within a solution to solve the issue of neighbourhood isolation. Through answering these sectors of the empathy map, our group is able to achieve a clear picture of what our problem is and begin working on the solution.

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Feedback on Empathy Map - Spin Off project

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Feedback on Empathy Map - Spin Off project

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After finishing the Empathy Map, our group ventured to another group to inquire if, from our empathy map, the group was able to understand our problem clearly. The feedback that we achieved was that our empathy map was significantly detailed and analysed, in an in-depth manner, of various causes of the problem and aspects of the issue. However, some constructive feedback is that our group will need to remember to take into consideration all of the factors within our problem and incorporate it into our solution. This feedback was helpful for our group as now, we know what to focus on, moving on, and this showcases how important the action of seeking feedback is.

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After finalising our understanding of the problem and our solution, our group was required to analyse persuasive techniques to incorporate within the script of our infomercial. Persuasive devices play a crucial role in shaping audience perception and encouraging engagement. Anecdotes help create emotional connections by providing relatable, real-life examples that support our message. Similarly, emotive words and images enhance this effect by appealing to the audience’s feelings, making the problem feel urgent and personal. Statistics and facts provide credibility, making our argument appear well-researched and difficult to dispute.

Additionally, rhetorical questions engage the audience by prompting them to reflect on the issue, while forceful phrases and a call to action push them towards making a decision. Repetition and the rule of three ensure that key points are memorable, reinforcing our message. Meanwhile, contrasts and criticism of the opposition highlight why our solution is superior, positioning us as knowledgeable and reliable. To maintain audience interest, we may also considered humour, chatty style, and catchy slogans, which make the content more engaging and easier to remember. By strategically incorporating these techniques, our infomercial effectively persuades viewers to recognise the significance of our solution and take action.

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Spin off- Part 1 Construction of the script: Introduction 

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Spin off- Part 1 Construction of the script: Introduction 

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Script of the introduction:

Let me ask you an honest question—do you really know your neighbour? Or do you just give them the occasional nod while taking out the bins? Well, you're not alone. Studies show that 38% of Australians don’t even know their neighbour’s name, according to the 2021 Australian Census. But the reality is even more alarming. In a recent survey of adolescents, 77.8% admitted they rarely see their neighbour, while 11.1% said they have never interacted with them at all. This isn’t just an awkward silence, it’s a crisis. A disconnected community leads to isolation, loneliness, even lower self-esteem and a serious lack of neighborhood BBQ invites. But what if we could change that?

Analysis of the introduction of the script:

n my introduction, I effectively engage the audience by using rhetorical questions, which encourage them to reflect on their own experiences with their neighbours. This makes the issue feel personal and relevant. I also incorporate statistics from the 2021 Australian Census and a survey of adolescents to establish credibility and provide concrete evidence of the problem. Additionally, I use emotive language, such as “isolation, loneliness, even lower self-esteem,” to highlight the negative consequences of a disconnected community, making the audience more likely to see the urgency of the issue. To maintain engagement, I include a touch of humor with “a serious lack of neighborhood BBQ invites,” which makes the introduction more relatable and prevents it from feeling overly serious. Finally, I use the phrase “But what if we could change that?” as a transition, creating curiosity and leading smoothly into the solution. This combination of persuasive techniques ensures that the introduction captures attention, builds credibility, and encourages the audience to continue watching.

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Spin off - Part 2: Construction of script: The solution

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Spin off - Part 2: Construction of script: The solution

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Explaining our solution - Script:

That’s why we developed Neighbourly: because connecting should be simple, safe, and fun. Connect, Engage, Belong. Meeting new friends in your area has never been easier!

To ensure security, users verify their identity through ID checks and face recognition. Once verified, they join their local South Australian community, unlocking a social feed where they can share updates, post events, and plan meet-ups. Why just live near people when you can truly know them? With Neighbourly, you can Connect, Engage and Belong.

We believe friendships start with common interests. That’s why users can personalise their profiles, highlighting hobbies and passions. Our app then utilises AI to detect your interests and hobbies and connect you with people who share these interests, making conversations effortless. This is a part of our NeighbourMatch System; swipe left to skip but up to connect! Struggling to break the ice? Our AI chat assistant suggests conversation starters to make socialising easier and also incorporates a feature where you can practice conversations with AI, building your communication skills. Whether you're an extrovert or someone who dreads texting, this feature helps you Connect, Engage and Belong.

But nothing beats face-to-face interactions. Our hangout feature lets users plan real-life meet-ups at safe, public locations in South Australia between 9 AM and 9 PM or earlier. Need ideas for a catch-up? Our AI suggests fun activities based on shared interests, so there’s never an awkward moment. Friendship isn’t just about chatting online, it’s about making real memories. With Neighbourly, you don’t just meet people; you truly Connect, Engage and belong.

And we haven’t forgotten about teens. With social isolation rising among adolescents and social interaction being a primal requirement of adolescence, we created a safe, age-appropriate teen version (12-17 years old). Teens must sign up in person via their council to ensure verified users only. Parental supervision, chat monitoring, and AI safety analysis create a secure and engaging environment. Making friends should be fun, but also safe. And with Neighbourly, teens can confidently Connect, Engage and Belong.

Analysis of the solution script:

This script uses a variety of persuasive techniques to captivate the audience and encourage them to use Neighbourly. The frequent use of direct address (e.g., "That’s why we developed Neighbourly" and "Whether you're an extrovert or someone who dreads texting") makes the message feel personal and relevant to the viewer. Rhetorical questions like "Why just live near people when you can truly know them?" spark curiosity and push the audience to reflect on their own social connections, creating a sense of urgency. The repetition of the slogan "Connect, Engage, and Belong" reinforces the app’s core values, making it more memorable and emotionally impactful. Emotive language (e.g., "Friendship isn’t just about chatting online, it’s about making real memories") appeals to the audience’s desire for meaningful relationships, tapping into the universal need for belonging. The script also uses social proof by referencing rising social isolation among teens, making the app seem like a necessary solution rather than just an option. Additionally, the contrast between problems and solutions (e.g., "Making friends should be fun, but also safe") highlights the app’s unique value, persuading viewers that Neighbourly is the answer to their social struggles. By combining these techniques, the script effectively builds trust, emotional connection, and urgency, compelling viewers to take action.

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Spin off - Part 3: Construction of the script: The conclusion

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Spin off - Part 3: Construction of the script: The conclusion

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Conclusion:

The Unley Council area is known for its vibrant community, yet many residents still struggle to connect beyond a simple wave. But what if that could change? What if meeting new friends, planning local events, and building a real sense of belonging was effortless? Picture a neighbourhood where people don’t just coexist, they truly connect. Where support is always within reach, and friendships are formed with ease. Neighbourly makes that vision a reality. Every interaction, every event, and every shared interest brings the community closer together. So don’t just stand on the sidelines, be part of something bigger. Download Neighbourly today and start building the connections you’ve been missing. Because real connections start here. Connect, Engage and Belong.

Analysis of the conclusion:

This conclusion is highly persuasive due to its use of rhetorical questions, emotive language, and a climactic build-up. The opening presents a contrast between Unley’s vibrant reputation and the reality of disconnection, immediately engaging the audience. The rhetorical questions that follow encourage the listener to imagine a better alternative, creating a sense of possibility and excitement. The phrase "Picture a neighbourhood where people don’t just coexist, they truly connect” appeals to the audience’s emotions, reinforcing the idea of meaningful relationships rather than superficial interactions. The use of direct address ("So don’t just stand on the sidelines") adds urgency and motivation, pushing the audience towards action. The call to action—"Download Neighbourly today and start building the connections you’ve been missing”—is clear and compelling, tying the message back to the app’s purpose. Finally, the slogan "Connect, Engage, and Belong” provides a powerful, memorable ending, reinforcing the app’s core mission. The structured build-up ensures that the conclusion leaves a lasting impact, making the audience feel that downloading the app is the next logical step.

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Reflection of recording of Spin-off Infomercial

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Reflection of recording of Spin-off Infomercial

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Throughout the process of recording scenes of our infomercial, there were various areas that our group did well, but also some areas of improvement. Within this section of the spin-off project, where our group was required to record, we had to utilise our script in order to film sections where the solution to our problem was advertised. An aspect that I noticed our group executed well within the recording was our acting. This was because we put emotions (appealing to pathos within the audience). This aspect we believed was important to be done carefully, as it showcases our effort within the project as well as how serious and dedicated we are to the solution, showcasing credibility. Additionally, another strength within our recording was our appeal to logos. Because we were able to add various statistics to our script, we were able to showcase to the audience our high level of research and credibility, encouraging them to consider our solution. As seen within the above clip, my body language and tone of voice is confident, showcasing my knowledge about my product. Despite these successes, there were some issues within our recording that we believe could be improved in the future. For example, our recording had exceeded the maximum time allowed for the infomercial by a minute, which may be a problem, as it may have been more effective in order to keep our video concise. In order to fix this issue in the future, we may consider making the script more concise and only putting in the necessary details. However, overall, I believe that our group executed our recordings to a high standard.

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Editing the recording of the Infomercial

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Editing the recording of the Infomercial

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Once all of the clips of the recordings for my infomercial had been recorded, I gathered the clips and transferred them to my laptop, where I was able to edit the video on CapCut. Within the editing process, I ensured that all of my clips flowed smoothly through the addition of transitions between the clips and additionally cut out some small sections that I believed weren't needed within the infomercial to reduce the length of the video. Furthermore, to add visual value, I constructed diagrams of my app to showcase to the audience what the app (the solution to the problem) would look like and operate. Likewise, I added subtitles to the video to ensure the viewer understands completely the information within the video;. Reflecting on my editing, I believe that I had edited it to the highest standard, as to add more special effects, I would have needed to spend money to upgrade my editing plan.

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So far during our lessons, I’ve learnt an important skill of utilising an empathy map. This skill I believe will be extremely useful for me as it helps me analyse problems deeply and finding what the individuals who are impacted by this problem need in order to develop a solution. Throughout this course, I believe that my biggest challenge within the Action Project will be my presentation skills, this is because in previous activities, I have discovered that I still need to refine my presentations in order for them to be clear and concise. I plan and hope to be able to develop this skill throughout the course to be able to master my skills in presenting. Within the Action Project, I believe that I’m most excited about the collaboration that I’ll be utilising as well as the critical creative thinking that will be required within the activities that we do. I am excited for this as I’m able to develop my skills of critical and creative thinking, and also develop new ways to solve problems. An aspect of my character that I believe will assist me throughout the Action Project is my ability and belief in the value of “committing to purpose”. This value means that within everything I do, I ensure that I put my best effort into it and do not give up when things become difficult. This value will assist me within the Action Project as it will ensure I utilise my critical thinking to complete my tasks even when there are roadblocks.

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Within this activity, Arjun and I were required to pitch a short 1-minute presentation on a new way in order to solve food wastage. Subsequent to pitching this presentation, our feedback was that next time, we should explain the problem more deeply first before delving straight into the solution. This is important as it showcases to the audience what our solution is actually trying to solve and gives them a clear idea of what the issue is. We will take this feedback in consideration when pitching our INNOV8 project.

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In today's lesson (1/04/2025), I worked on my Padlet to refine and finish it. Within my Padlet, I reflect on numerous activities, tasks and assessments I have undergone throughout the Action Project within term 1. I reflect on my strengths and weaknesses within these activities, emphasising my emotions and how future improvement is necessary. A strength that I believe is apparent within my Padlet is my in-depth level of reflection, where I'm able to detail my processes within an activity and the struggles I experienced, allowing me to analyse how I can improve in the future. This assists me significantly and makes me proud as I can showcase my understanding of the task, as well as my reflective skills and further perform better in future tasks. Despite these successes, however, I believe that within the process of creating the Padlet, my organisation is. This is because, for some reflections, I was required to cram them in last minute, which may decrease my detail of understanding of them. To improve in the future, I believe that within the Term 2 padlet, I will reflect on everything I do once I complete it, ensuring that I have a fresh memory and memorise which date I reflect on.

Overall, however, I think I put in a significant amount of effort in reflecting within my padlet to showcase my high capability of being able to reflect.

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Currently reflecting on my progress within the INNOV8 task, I've made a high amount of progress and am on track to present next week in week 4. I have finished most of my slides as well, and my partner, Arjun, has developed some Cue Cards around our slides.

What do I feel like I need to improve in?

However, after consulting with my teachers, they gave me some constructional feedback on how within the information presented on my slides, instead of bolding sentences, I should bold keywords to maximize the power and engagement of my presentation. Additionally, it was suggested that I include more persuasive devices within my slides to further convince my audience during the pitch to consider my idea. Likewise, I need to improve the conciseness of my information to ensure my pitch fits in 5 minutes. Furthermore, the last piece of feedback was to include a second solution which I am currently working on.

What were your standards for this piece of work?

My standard whilst working on this assignment was to create a presentation that informed the audience of a clear idea of what the problem our group wanted to solve and how we were solving it. Throughout this project, I ensured that for every aspect of my problem and solution, I explained the functions in clear detail, minimising possible confusion. These were my standards for this task as I believe working on the clarity of my presentation will maximize the engagement of the pitch and its effectiveness of it.

Did you meet your standards?

I believe that I have met my standards in explaining my INNOV8 idea clearly within my slides, cue cards and my knowledge about my project, however, I believe that I have over-explained. From previous feedback, I have included too much information which may reduce clarity. In order to improve this, I will ensure that my presentation only includes the most important aspects that my audience needs to know to understand my idea.

Within the image attached above, I've showcased my progress working on the second solution.

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As we moved closer to finalising our slides, Arjun and I developed numerous cue cards that detailed what we would discuss in our script. These cue cards were dot points around how we would present our products and did not follow an exact script, allowing us to improvise.

What were some aspects that were completed well within our cue cards?

The aspects that we believed were completed well within our initial cue cards were the dot points that we had illustrated in them. Because the dot points were broad and only specific when it detailed statistics and data, there was major room to improvise within our script and our product, showcasing a high amount of understanding.

What were some aspects of our cue cards that could be improved?

Because we utilised pencil (and my handwriting wasn't the best), it was extremely difficult to read which significantly impacted the quality of our script as it caused major pauses. Because of this, Arjun and I needed to take our cue cards back and figure out a method to reform the neatness. Furthermore, whilst practising presenting our problem and the two solutions, our presentation took a long time, over the time limit of 5 minutes (it took us approximately 9 minutes). As a result, we now knew we needed to cut down on the presentation.

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In order to refine our cue cards, we decided to instead of writing our points in pencil, type in on a document and print it out. This ensured that our hand writing was readable and would help us improve our efficiency whilst presenting. Although, Arjun and I decided that instead of dot points, we would write a script instead, as it would be easier to present our presentation. Still, we made a promise to ourselves that we would not read our cue cards the entire presentation but only look at them for redirection.

How did these cue cards showcase improvement:

These changes in cue cards showcased my improvement within this task as our group was able to tackle a problem and utilise our problem-solving skills to find an alternative to solve the issue. This allowed us to gain more confidence in our presentation as whenever I problem occurred, we knew that we could solve it.

What further improvements did our group need to refine?

Subsequent to refining our cue cards and presenting our script, we discovered that our presentation had taken approximately 7 minutes which still remained over the time limit. At this point, Arjun and I were worried that we were not going to be able to cut the script and presentation down so that we could present it in only 5 minutes all together. However we knew that because we've faced challenges in the past before, we can overcome this one.

How did my group refine this issue?

To fix this problem, Arjun and I consulted with Mr. Fisher to gain assistance with cutting down. Mr. Fisher showcased to us the new task format that when compared to our current presentation, had fewer information requirements. As a result of this, Arjun and I were able to delete sections of the presentations and scrip that weren't needed, helping us progress towards solving our issue.

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Week 6: Post INNOV8 Marketing Pitch Padlet (Lesson 1 Monday)

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Week 6: Post INNOV8 Marketing Pitch Padlet (Lesson 1 Monday)

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What strong aspects did you see in other groups' really strong presentations?

An aspect that I observed that worked extremely well for the groups that utilised it was their manner of speaking. Groups that had utilised their manner in a confident and clear manner, were able to showcase that they had a strong and high understanding of their issue and their solutions. As a result of this, these groups were able to gain increased trust from the audience that this product was well researched. Due to this observation, Arjun and I dedicated our time, before the presentation to practice our presentation skills, ensuring it was engaging, innovative and confident.

What aspects were less successful in other groups?

Within other groups, some of the less successful aspects of the other groups were the time limit and additionally, how they introduced the problem. For a considerable portion of the groups, time was a major constraint towards the quality of their presentation as some groups were not able to progress towards their second solution before the time was over. This was due to them either putting a significant amount of detail within their problem and solution, as well as being too repetitive. To learn from that, Arjun and I checked over our script and slides to ensure that we were not too repetitive of ideas (although still repeating important lines to increase our persuasiveness) and deleted any sections of the presentation that was not required for the marketing pitch (such as the partnerships and funding).

What were the great ideas?

The really great ideas within the presentation were the ones that were complemented with an aesthetically pleasing and informative slideshow, this inclusion of a detailed slideshow allowed the audience to clearly visualise the group's targetted issue and their solution, improving the clarity of the presentation. Observing this aspect, Arjun and I ensured that our slides were detailed and engaging, utilising bold to highlight important keywords in order for the audience to clearly absorb our information and adding numerous visuals around the problem and images of how our product will be operated throughout the slides for our audience to clearly understand what our group was attempting to illustrate.

What feedback have we received regarding our INNOV8 marketing pitch?

Subsequent to carrying out our marketing pitch, our group received a high amount of positive feedback, which we felt extremely proud of. One of the positive feedbacks that stood out to us was our strong ability to hook the audience which was something we had developed constantly, leading up to the pitch. This was because within our presentation, during the problem, we interacted with the audience by asking them questions that related to them personally, leading to them believing in the problem more and being interested in a solution that would fix the problem. With this positive feedback, Arjun and I will ensure we keep and even improve our high-quality hooks within our elevator pitch and EXPO pitch, ensuring that our audience will always be engaged. Some feedback around what could be improved on was our speaking speed because we still had a large amount of information to explain within the pitch, often, Arjun and I spoke fast which reduced the clarity of the presentation in some areas. To improve on this element, leading up to our EXPO, Arjun and I will further concise our ideas and significantly analyse only which ideas we would need to talk about as we are aware that within the elevator pitch, we only have a maximum of 60 seconds to convert our presentation. To take on this feedback, we will need to utilise critical and creative thinking (analysing only which important aspects we need to speak about in our elevator pitch), communication (clearly discuss this with my partner) and collaboration (collaborate with my partner to improve on this feedback and carry it out successfully).

Which of the 5C's did Arjun and I struggle with?

I believe Arjun and I were able to utilise the majority of the 5C's that were required within this task to a high standard. Within the aspect of Critical and Creative thinking, we utilised the elements within that rubric well and our pitch was innovative and persuasive. However, in terms of collaboration, I believe that we could have improved on that as often times, I was required to complete some of the tasks that Arjun was assigned to carry-out as he did not have the time to complete them, which had put more pressure on me, however, I believe we can fix this in the future by communicating with Arjun smaller tasks potentially and trust him to finish the task before I take initiative and complete it myself. Communication wise however, I believe our communication was developed well within this task as when I was away on the Duke of Ed camp, I was able to successfully communicate with Arjun what I needed him to complete within the project which helped our group progress even when one group member was missing.

What improvements, changes and tweaks do I need to make before the INNOV8 Expo on Thursday Week 8:

As I prepare for the upcoming EXPO on Thursday of Week 8, I recognise several key areas for improvement based on observations from other groups' presentations and the feedback we received after our INNOV8 marketing pitch. Notably, successful presentations showcased a confident and clear manner of speaking, which enhanced credibility and audience trust; therefore, Arjun and I will continue refining our delivery to ensure it is engaging and confident. I also observed that many groups struggled with time management and effectively introducing their problems, often leading to incomplete presentations or excessive detail that detracted from their overall message. To avoid these pitfalls, we will meticulously review our script and slides, eliminating unnecessary content while maintaining persuasive repetition of key points, especially since our elevator pitch is limited to 60 seconds. Additionally, I noted that aesthetically pleasing and informative slides significantly aided audience comprehension, so we will enhance our visuals by highlighting important keywords and incorporating relevant images. While we received positive feedback for our engaging hooks, criticism regarding our speaking speed highlighted the need for clearer articulation, so we will practice pacing our delivery and critically analyze which points are essential for our pitch. Lastly, while we demonstrated strong critical and creative thinking, collaboration emerged as an area needing improvement, as I often took on tasks that Arjun was unable to complete due to time constraints. Moving forward, I will foster a more balanced workload by clearly communicating task expectations and trusting Arjun to manage his tasks, alleviating pressure and enhancing our collaborative efforts. By focusing on these areas, I am confident our presentation will resonate strongly with the audience at the EXPO. Likewise, we additionally need to create a website and design our stand for our EXPO in order to make it attractive and the website serves as something we or the audience can scroll through whilst we are giving our pitch to them.

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Within this lesson, as it was the final lesson that every group could utilise before they were required to present their marketing pitches, it was significant that our group utilised it efficiently.

What needs to be improved currently?

Currently within our presentation, the only aspect that needed to be fixed was the amount of information we were presenting the whole presentation was a minute and 30 seconds over the time limit. Because of this, we dedicated the lesson to refining the info.

How did we refine this?

In order to refine this element, we had to cut down the slides that we were not required within the presentation such as the funding and partnership. By doing this, as well as utilising critical and creative thinking and collaboration to make our information more concise and clear. By the end of the lesson, we were able to reduce our presentation so it fitted the time limit.

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Lesson 2: INNOV8 EXPO Activity Reflection

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Lesson 2: INNOV8 EXPO Activity Reflection

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Within this activity in this lesson, both Action Project classes were required to curate a range of appropriate stall designs that expressed a certain, interesting, prompt that the group was given.

How has this task changed my thinking and how I could display my product?

Subsequent to completing this task, I was able to collate various innovate ideas that I could utilise within the design of my own stall, regarding ELEV8. The prompt that I was given, which required the use of the element of surprise, had developed my thinking of how I could engage my audience and how my presentation could be different from others within the Expo. The idea of the stall design that Arjun and I had curated regarding this prompt revolved around changing the display. We decided to surprise the audience with the information that our stall had offered by not displaying it all at once at the start but instead, progressively throughout the presentation. For example, our stall may start blank or simple at first, but as we present to our audience, we uncover elements such as posters, logos, etc, meaning that we set up our stall whilst presenting. Although this idea may be risky, if executed correctly, it not only provides an engaging way to present information but also may allow the audience to retain information more clearly and for longer.

Did I get any other ideas along my gallery walk?

Yes, the gallery walk had additionally been helpful towards our group's collation of ideas and elements. This was because we were able to uncover other interesting and useful prompts such as "incorporating international perspectives" and "incorporating a timeline" that could be implemented into our stall. These prompts work collectively to expand on the credibility and showcase in-depth research within our topic, allowing the audience to have more belief in our product.

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Within this lesson, my peers were performing their INNOV8 Pitches to the class. I had analysed this to be a prime opportunity for me to be able to observe what groups had done well and adapt those features that they had carried out, and then refine aspects that our peers could have improved on within their pitch.

What did the groups do well?

Throughout the presentations, several key elements stood out that contributed to the effectiveness of the pitches:

1. High Confidence Levels: Groups that exhibited confidence in their delivery commanded attention and engaged the audience effectively. This confidence was often reflected in their body language, vocal projection, and eye contact, which collectively enhanced their credibility and persuasive power.

2. Engaging Visual Aids: The use of well-designed slideshows enriched the presentations significantly. Groups that incorporated a variety of visuals, including diagrams, charts, and images, not only maintained audience interest but also facilitated better understanding of complex concepts. The integration of these elements demonstrated a thoughtful approach to communication, making the content more accessible and memorable.

3. Effective Q&A Handling: Many groups excelled in the question-and-answer segments, responding to inquiries with clarity and assurance. This ability to engage in dialogue highlighted their preparedness and deep understanding of their topics, reinforcing their authority in the subject matter.

What could groups have improved on?

Despite the strengths observed, there were notable areas where many groups could enhance their presentations:

1. Audience Interaction: A recurring observation was the lack of audience engagement during the pitches. Few groups actively involved their listeners through questions or interactive elements. Encouraging audience participation not only fosters a more dynamic environment but also helps to gauge the audience's understanding and interest. Incorporating strategies such as rhetorical questions, polls, or brief discussions could significantly elevate the overall impact of the presentations.

In summary, the INNOV8 Pitches had helped provided, me a rich learning experience, highlighting effective presentation techniques that can be emulated while also revealing opportunities for improvement. Arjun and I will ensure to maximise the quality of our presentation by adopting a more interactive approach and maintaining high levels of confidence and visual engagement. future presentations can be even more compelling. As we refine our own pitch, I am eager to implement these observations, ensuring we create a presentation that resonates with our audience and effectively communicates our ideas.

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Subsequent to finishing my Action Project pitch, I believed it was crucial in order to reflect on Arjun and I's presentation in order to appreciate our progress, as well as begin to think about what could be improved within the presentation.

In what ways have you gotten better at this kind of work?

Throughout my experience within schooling, I have observed that presentation skills are a crucial aspect within learning and a skill that is to be refined thoroughly to excel in other aspects beyond school that require extensive communication skills, such as employment interviews. These essential skills of mine, I believe, have been significantly refined through my ELEV8 pitch as within the process of developing the pitch, I was required to implement elements that refined my presentation skills. Elements such as revising the confidence in my voice, memorising parts of my speech, as well as including persuasive techniques, have helped amplify my presentation skills. As a result, due to my dedication to the ELEV8 pitch, I was not only able to showcase a high standard of understanding to my assessors but also further develop crucial presentation skills for the future.

What were your standards for this piece of work?

My standards within this piece of work were to ensure that whilst presenting Arjun and I's pitch, the presentation would be informative, clear and engaging. These were the 3 aspects that were constantly developed and refined throughout the construction of the pitch, for our group to be able to achieve a high-quality presentation.

Did you meet your standards?

Yes, I believe that these standards were met within our pitch. First, our presentation was informative as it detailed all of the required aspects of the rubric to a high level, as stated by the assessors, and showcased a high level of understanding within my project. Additionally, the pitch I believed was clear as through constant refinement, we were able to extract the key details of the features and elements surrounding our product (and the issue it aims to solve), and present it in a concise but informative manner, allowing us to not go overtime. Furthermore, our pitch was engaging as the tone we had utilised throughout the pitch was loud, clear and confident as well as we had showed dedication in further interacting with the audience (when I asked rhetorical question to specific subject teachers surrounding the impacts of the issue) ensuring that the issue we were trying to solve had resonated with the audience. As a result of us meeting our 3 criteria to a high level, as I believed, we were able to carry out major progress and demonstrated readiness for the following EXPO.

What will you change in the next revision of this piece?

I believe that potentially something to be changed within the next revision of this piece is to ensure that whilst presenting, I was not speaking too fast, as this may have decreased the clarity of the information I was presenting, resulting in potential confusion or misunderstanding within the audience (although not much). I will work on refining this issue through practising my presentation and speaking skills more frequently, especially within the days leading to the INNOV8 Expo, to ensure that the guests, teachers and judges that I am presenting to will be able to receive high-quality and clear information.

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Lesson 3:  30/5 - Planning the next steps for the INNOV8 Expo

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Lesson 3:  30/5 - Planning the next steps for the INNOV8 Expo

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After conducting a thorough self-reflection on my performance during the ELEV8 Pitch, I am now preparing for the next key milestone: the EXPO evening, scheduled to take place in Week 8. On this occasion, Arjun and I will be formally presenting ELEV8 to a diverse audience that includes parents, teacher assessors, verified judges, and various invited guests. The primary purpose of this event is not only to showcase our innovative solution but also to effectively communicate and market the depth, impact, and long-term viability of our idea.

Unlike the initial classroom pitch, which primarily focused on introducing the concept and receiving preliminary feedback, the EXPO demands a far more comprehensive and sophisticated approach. This event functions as a full-scale exposition, requiring us to present detailed insights into the development process, operational mechanics, projected outcomes, and the real-world application of ELEV8. It is an opportunity to demonstrate not only the feasibility of our solution but also the rigorous thought, research, and refinement that have shaped it thus far.

In order to ensure that we approach this with the highest standard of professionalism and quality, Arjun and I collaboratively developed a comprehensive planning document, as referenced in the image above. This document systematically outlines the specific areas of our presentation that require further development, identifies the additional elements that must be created or refined, and establishes clear action steps to elevate the overall calibre of our EXPO presentation. Through this structured and deliberate preparation, we aim to deliver a presentation that not only reflects our personal best but also effectively engages our audience and showcases the true potential of ELEV8.

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Development of the the ELEV8 Website: Part 1

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Development of the the ELEV8 Website: Part 1

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What did I do?

Within the initial process of constructing our website, I started off with developing the home page. The home page is an essential section of our website as it gives a short overview of what ELEV8 is.

How did I do it and what impact does this create?

Within the home page, I ensured that I added the name of our service, ELEV8, in bold to capture the audience's attention. I then further implemented the slogan of ELEV8, "Unlocking Potential. Breaking Barriers. Elevating Futures", utilising the persuasive technique of adding a catchy slogan and impactful slogan to hook my audience into wanting to unveil more information surrounding ELEV8. The background/colour theme of my website was furthermore a crucial aspect within the website as the gradient of light to middle-toned blue signifies emotions of professionalism and trust, demonstrating how colours have been utilised as a visual persuasive technique.

Below the title of my website, ELEV8, I additionally added a short blurb of what the service was and what it did, ensuring the audience is not faced with an overload of information, but only reviewing the key details of ELEV8 that are crucial for them to know. As a result, this increases their engagement as well as requires them to navigate further through the website if they desire to discover more information.

How will I continue this impact if it is positive?

To further refine the engagement of our website, below this blurb, our team plans to create a short advertisement video informing the audience about key information and evidence surrounding ELEV8.

Throughout the construction of the initial steps within the ELEV8 website, I'm able to showcase how small and brief details within my website are utilised in order to create an increased persuasive impact. Due to this, it demonstrates Arjun and I's persistency, which will be observed throughout the construction every aspect within the website, to ensure that our product is communicated in the best way.

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 2 -  Constructing the Features part

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 2 -  Constructing the Features part

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Following the successful completion of ELEV8's homepage, I proceeded to develop a dedicated Features section that strategically highlights the core components of the ELEV8 program. This addition serves a critical purpose: to provide the audience, consisting of parents, teachers, judges, and potential stakeholders, with a clear, concise, and engaging overview of the diverse support services ELEV8 offers. Effectively communicating these features is essential, as it allows viewers to immediately understand the comprehensive nature of the program and its capacity to address multiple facets of student development.

Central to this section , as observed in the first image, is a carefully designed visual representation, placed directly beneath the subtitle, which categorizes ELEV8’s support into four primary domains: Academic Support, Extracurricular Enrichment, Career Exposure, and Wellbeing Guidance. In crafting this visual, I was intentional in avoiding an excessive amount of text, recognizing that a cluttered interface can lead to cognitive overload and disengagement. By emphasizing clarity and simplicity, I sought to maximize user engagement, ensuring that the audience can easily absorb and process the information presented.

To further enrich the user experience, I embedded an interactive pop-up element. as observed in the second image above. When activated, this feature directs the viewer to an external Prezi presentation, which offers an in-depth, dynamic exploration of ELEV8’s full range of features and showcases how they are integrated within the application. This design choice is deliberate: rather than overwhelming every visitor with extensive detail upfront, it empowers individuals who seek additional information to explore it at their own pace, fostering a more personalized and user-friendly interaction with the platform..

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 3 - Constructing the Application Part

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 3 - Constructing the Application Part

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In creating the section that explains the application process and requirements of ELEV8 on my website, I prioritised clarity, simplicity, and reassurance for my audience. I knew that for many visitors, whether parents, students, or potential partners, the application process could feel intimidating if not clearly communicated.

To address this, I designed the section using a clean, easy-to-follow 3-step flowchart: Apply → Interview → Access Support. This visual structure breaks down the process into digestible stages, allowing users to quickly grasp what’s involved without feeling overwhelmed.

I also included clear eligibility criteria that highlight both financial need and student potential, which reflects ELEV8’s mission of identifying and empowering high-potential students who face socioeconomic barriers. The language I used is supportive and encouraging, reinforcing that the program is designed to unlock opportunities rather than create unnecessary hurdles.

Furthermore, I ensured the design was visually appealing and inviting, using consistent colour schemes, icons, and minimal text blocks so that the information is accessible to a wide audience. By presenting the process in this way, I’ve created a user-friendly experience that builds confidence and encourages eligible students and families to apply without hesitation, while also showcasing the professionalism of the Elev8 program to stakeholders.

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Developtment of the ELEV8 Website Part 4 - Constructing the Case Study 

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Developtment of the ELEV8 Website Part 4 - Constructing the Case Study 

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In developing the ELEV8 case study, my goal was to craft a persuasive narrative that allowed my audience to emotionally connect with the challenges low-income students face. Rather than relying solely on statistics, I introduced Amina, a fictional student representing real systemic barriers. Her story allowed me to personalise the broader issue, immediately engaging the audience through pathos by evoking empathy for her struggles with limited academic support, lack of extracurricular opportunities, and absence of career guidance.

Structuring the case study chronologically helped the audience clearly follow Amina’s journey from disadvantage to achievement, while reinforcing the holistic nature of Elev8’s support, academic tutoring, extracurricular kits, career exposure, and family involvement. This segmented approach provided clarity while building momentum, ensuring the audience could see the compounding impact of each feature.

Alongside emotional appeal, I strategically integrated logos through measurable outcomes such as her improvement from Cs to As, gaining an internship, and securing a place in a selective STEM school. These data points enhanced credibility and demonstrated Elev8’s tangible success. I also incorporated ethos by highlighting Elev8’s sustainable, data-driven model, long-term partnerships, and targeted support, positioning the program as a credible and effective solution.

Using StoryMaps allowed me to combine concise text, visuals, and interactive design, making the case study visually engaging while amplifying its persuasive impact. Ultimately, this process created a highly effective tool that not only informs but powerfully persuades, showcasing how Elev8 truly unlocks potential, breaks barriers, and elevates futures.

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 5 - Developing the FAQs section 

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 5 - Developing the FAQs section 

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While designing the FAQ section of my ELEV8 website, I recognised that addressing funding was absolutely essential. Not only is sustainable funding critical for the real-world viability of any initiative, but it is also a core element within the success criteria of the Expo presentation. Without a clear financial model, even the strongest program vision would lack credibility. Understanding this, I committed to thoroughly researching realistic costs across staffing, technology, resources, and operations, breaking them down into detailed categories such as human resources, learning kits, extracurricular materials, and digital infrastructure.

To present this information in a way that was accessible and visually engaging for my audience, I chose to develop a separate Prezi presentation linked directly to my website’s FAQ section. This allowed me to go beyond a simple paragraph response, creating a dynamic explanation of how ELEV8 will be funded through a combination of government support, corporate partnerships, philanthropic foundations, and community fundraising.

By presenting the funding breakdown interactively, I ensured that judges and visitors could easily grasp both the scale of the financial need and the depth of planning behind Elev8’s sustainability. This additional element significantly strengthened the overall persuasiveness and professionalism of my Expo submission.

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 6 - Developing the Stakeholders' information of ELEV8/ELEV8's partners

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 6 - Developing the Stakeholders' information of ELEV8/ELEV8's partners

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In developing the "Our Partners" section for my ELEV8 website, I understood the importance of showcasing credible, relevant partnerships to strengthen the legitimacy and persuasive power of the program. Strategic partnerships are crucial for demonstrating both external validation and long-term sustainability, essential elements that align with the success criteria for the Expo presentation.

I carefully selected partners such as Commonwealth Bank, Officeworks, and The Duke of Edinburgh Program due to their proven history of supporting youth education, leadership development, and social equity, directly aligning with ELEV8’s mission to unlock potential, break barriers, and elevate futures. This section wasn’t a list of names, but an intentional showcase of alignment between ELEV8’s goals and the values of these organisations. To strengthen its persuasive and imformative impact, I crafted a prezi that was linked to this section of the website detailing the assistance that these partners could provide to ELEV8, further strengthening the funding information, directly appealing to my Expo audience of educators, parents, judges, and community members.

By presenting partnerships in this way, I positioned ELEV8 as a program that not only identifies existing gaps in the education system but collaborates with reputable organisations to create a unified, actionable solution. This section greatly enhanced the program’s credibility and persuasive strength on my website.

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 7 - Developing the Donation tab within the ELEV8  Website

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Development of the ELEV8 Website Part 7 - Developing the Donation tab within the ELEV8  Website

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Creating the "Donate" section of my website was a vital component in inviting my audience to take meaningful action beyond simply learning about ELEV8. While I don’t currently have my own donation platform, I strategically directed visitors to existing organisations that align with ELEV8’s mission, ensuring their generosity still contributes to closing the education gap. This design choice maintained the ethical integrity of my project while still fulfilling the Expo’s success criteria around sustainability and audience engagement. To maximise its persuasive appeal, I crafted emotionally charged language, using pathos to highlight the unjust barriers faced by low-income students. The call-to-action empowers visitors, making them feel personally capable of contributing to the solution. This section reinforces the larger narrative of Elev8: community-driven support that unlocks potential, breaks barriers, and elevates futures.

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Subsequent to generating significant progress in creating the website, Arjun had suggested that we make posters to display within our ELEV8 Stall during the Expo. The construction of posters was a crucial aspect as it was not only a technique to be able to transfer information to our audience more efficiently but further improved the aesthetic and visual appeal of our stall, leading to higher audience attraction and engagement.

Knowing this, Arjun then started to construct the posters surrounding what ELEV8 does. In order to accomplish this, he first developed a poster that highlighted ELEV8's mission. This was a crucial design as it allows the reader to clearly view what the service aims to accomplish and how it aims to support and change education for low-income individuals. The short and highly visible description of the mission allows the audience to efficiently read, understand and remember the purpose of ELEV8, increasing the engagement within our stall and prompting the audience to want to discover more. Furthermore, below the mission, we have included text that details "Join Us. Help Others Thrive." This was a critical inclusion of a call to action that was placed under ELEV8's mission, and it coveys the idea that the audience is a part of ELEV8's supporting journey in allowing low-income students receive access to high-end education, fostering a sense of responsibility and action, further persuading the audience to want to learn more about our cause.

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After refining the posters that detailed ELEV8's purpose and what it served, Arjun had further suggested that posters surrounding the issue that ELEV8 was attempting to solve should be made. This was a crucial process as it assists in showcasing key statistics that demonstrate that the issue is evident without requiring Arjun and I to explain the statistics within our elevator pitch, saving us time and words. Furthermore, it allows for increased engagement within our presentation as when the audience asks more questions surrounding the issue, we are able to point towards the poster and explain it without sounding robotic or scripted.

The first poster that Arjun had constructed surrounding the issue that ELEV8 aims to solve documents a quote from Obama that is related to the issue. This was imperative as it appeals to the logos and ethos of the audience by including a famous and respected figure, further reinforcing the importance of acknowledging the issue and encouraging the audience to discover how to solve this issue through listening to the ELEV8 presentation.

Additionally, Arjun constructed two posters that utilised graphs and a clear and concise explanation of the graphs. This appealed to logo mainly as it demonstrates statistics surrounding the problem and emphasises the real-life impact of the issue through real data. Additionally, the brief explanation of the graph allows audience that are having quick look at our expo to easily understand the information, further increasing the engagement and clarity of our presentation.

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What prompted the development of the brochure?

Once Arjun and I began refining the visual experience of our Expo stall, we asked ourselves: “How will visitors remember Elev8 after leaving our stall?” We realised that while our pitch and website were comprehensive, we needed a tangible takeaway that could reinforce our message even after brief conversations, hence the construction of a brochure.

What was my intention behind the design?

We designed the brochure to be concise, visually appealing, and immediately informative. The front page featured Elev8’s logo, our motto (Unlocking Potential, Breaking Barriers, Elevating Futures), and a short tagline (A free education program to help low socio-economic students). This ensured that even with a quick glance, visitors understood our mission.

How did this meet my audience’s needs?

Many Expo visitors were busy, speaking to multiple presenters. By offering a brochure, we catered to those who might not have time for a full pitch but could still leave with a clear understanding of Elev8’s purpose. The second page summarised the issue and our mission in simple terms, while the final page listed our key features, contact information, Instagram handle, and a QR code linking directly to our website.

What impact did this have?

The brochure became a critical persuasive tool that extended engagement beyond face-to-face interaction. It demonstrated our ability to communicate clearly and creatively, aligning with the success criteria of effective entrepreneurial thinking. The QR code allowed us to seamlessly bridge physical interaction with digital engagement, giving visitors an easy way to continue exploring Elev8.

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When designing my Elev8 website, I recognised that visual storytelling would be one of the most powerful tools to emotionally engage my audience. This prompted me to develop the advertisement video, as it allowed me to convey not only the facts behind the issue but also the human stories that bring Elev8’s mission to life. My guiding question was: “How can I make my audience not only understand the problem, but truly feel the urgency behind it?”

The video structure was carefully crafted to follow a persuasive narrative arc. I began by illustrating the core issue , the harsh reality of educational inequality for low-income students. By using relatable, emotive language and strong rhetorical questions, I immediately drew viewers into the emotional weight of the problem. This created a sense of empathy and personal connection, especially for parents and community members.

The testimonial segment, where a family member acted as a student whose life was transformed by Elev8, provided authentic and compelling evidence of impact. This personal story made the abstract issue tangible, demonstrating Elev8’s effectiveness. I also strategically repeated our motto , Unlocking Potential, Breaking Barriers, Elevating Futures , to reinforce our vision and embed it in the audience’s memory.

By concluding with a direct call-to-action, I empowered my audience to become part of the solution. Overall, the video served as a highly persuasive, multi-modal piece that enhanced the emotional depth of my Expo pitch and elevated the professionalism of my website.

Despite these efforts however, there was an issue as the individual clips that I had acquired were edited in the wrong order and moving them into the correct order that I had desired had required me to complete the editing process again within CapCut. As a result of this, I decided to download the video as it is, allowing me to acquire all of the clips, and splitting the whole clip collage into the clips that I had aimed to reorder and move them around within another editing software, Premiere Pro.

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Subsequent to downloading Premiere Pro, I imported my edited clips from CapCut and began making extensive refinements to elevate the overall quality of the video.

Firstly, I carefully reordered the clips into a more logical and cohesive sequence, ensuring that the narrative flowed seamlessly. This restructuring significantly enhanced the audience’s ability to follow the story, making the message more compelling and easier to absorb, which is crucial for maintaining engagement throughout the presentation.

Next, I incorporated subtitles throughout the video. This not only increased accessibility for all viewers but also ensured that key messages were reinforced visually, particularly in a setting where audio might not always be perfectly clear during the EXPO. Subtitles allow the audience to remain engaged and retain important information.

Furthermore, I then integrated additional visual elements that demonstrated how Elev8 operates, providing tangible, visual evidence of our program’s features and real-life impact. These visuals served to strengthen the persuasive appeal by offering concrete examples, helping viewers connect emotionally with the solution, and further reinforcing Elev8’s credibility and effectiveness.

Through finishing this video and uploading to the home page of the website, viewers can watch a short video detailing what ELEV8 does and the issue it aims to solve before navigating the website for finer details.

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While away on the Duke of Edinburgh camp in Week 2, I proactively ensured our INNOV8 presentation work continued by composing a clear and structured email to Arjun. This moment reflects my growth in collaboration and responsibility, two core aspects of the 5Cs. Despite being physically absent, I was still able to contribute to group progress by providing specific slide numbers, time allocations, and clear expectations, which helped Arjun work efficiently and independently in my absence. Writing this email also refined my communication skills, I was careful to be concise, polite, and appreciative, ensuring that my tone remained respectful and encouraging. Delegating this task also demonstrated strategic thinking and trust, as I acknowledged my partner’s strengths while managing workload constraints. This experience reinforced my understanding that leadership isn’t always about doing everything yourself, but about enabling others to succeed in your absence. It’s a skill I will continue to apply in both academic and professional settings in the future.

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The design of my Elev8 stall was carefully constructed to maximise audience engagement, accessibility, and visual impact. Surrounding the stall with informative posters allowed visitors to independently explore key aspects of the program while reinforcing the professionalism of the presentation. Incorporating QR codes provided an interactive digital element, enabling seamless access to deeper resources such as the website and case study, catering to diverse audience preferences. The inclusion of brochures offered a tangible takeaway, ensuring the message of Elev8 extended beyond the stall itself. On the presentation side, looping videos, a live website demonstration on my phone, and a guided slideshow created a dynamic and immersive experience that captured attention and held engagement. Decorative elements like balloons and a consistent blue colour theme symbolised education, trust, and opportunity, directly aligning with Elev8’s mission. Overall, these design choices ensured the stall was not only informative but also persuasive, memorable, and professional.

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What went well throughout the expo?

Throughout the INNOV8 EXPO, several elements of our presentation and stall exceeded expectations. The audience demonstrated strong engagement with our project, Elev8, as they consistently expressed interest, asked insightful questions, and showed genuine support for our mission to bridge educational inequality. The visual incorporation of posters, QR codes, interactive technology, brochures, and consistent colour themes, successfully attracted visitors and encouraged exploration. Furthermore, the clarity and confidence of our verbal presentations allowed us to clearly convey the significance and impact of Elev8, while addressing audience queries with depth and professionalism.

What could have been improved? What were some limitations?

However, one area for improvement was managing our speaking pace. At times, due to nerves or excitement, we spoke slightly too quickly, which may have limited some audience members’ full understanding. A  limitation was time management leading up to the Expo, as completing all materials (posters, website, video, brochures, and case study) was demanding and occasionally overwhelming. Improved pacing of preparation could have reduced last-minute stress. Furthermore another major limitation was not being able to have enough workspace within our stall. For example, we had planned the space of our stall to have a TV and two boards where we could stick posters on and a rectangular table. However, in reality on the EXPO day, Arjun and I were limited to a round table and one board, requiring us to display most of our digital aspects on smaller screens such as our laptops and phones. Furthermore, only some posters could be hung up as we did not have enough space. Due to this, I believed that the aesthetic appeal of the stall had been negatively impacted, however, our group still managed to work with what we had.

What element of the 5Cs rubric was showcased most strongly throughout the EXPO and which one could have been improved?

Among the 5Cs, Communication was the element most strongly demonstrated. Our ability to engage, persuade, and inform a diverse audience through multiple mediums reflected advanced communication skills. We had focused on the element of presenting information as we had believed that this element was crucial in order to gain the engagement within our audience. As a result, we ensured to practice how we could connect and interact with our audience better (through asking them personalised questions) which had increased the engagement of our stall.  Conversely, Collaboration could have been further refined, particularly in more evenly distributing workload during the preparation stages.

What are skills that I will take from the EXPO and utilise in in the future.?

From this experience, I have developed valuable skills in communication, time management, critical thinking, and audience engagement. Moving forward, I will utilise these skills not only in academic settings but also in future leadership roles, professional presentations, and collaborative projects where clear messaging and effective teamwork are crucial.

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Throughout this semester, the Action Project course has been instrumental in my personal and academic development. I have developed a wide range of high-level skills that I will carry forward. Critical among these have been advanced problem-solving, design thinking, and innovative ideation. Particularly, through developing Elev8 in the INNOV8 task and Neighbourly in the spin-off assignment, I learned to identify existing flaws within current solutions and combine, refine, and expand upon these ideas to create tailored, innovative programs. For example, with Elev8, I combined models of scholarship, mentorship, and extracurricular access to design a holistic solution addressing the multi-dimensional barriers faced by low-income students. This experience has significantly deepened my understanding of how complex issues require layered solutions that not only address immediate needs but create sustainable, long-term change.

Additionally, my understanding and application of the 5Cs, Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, Critical Thinking and Character were thoroughly refined throughout the course.
In terms of communication, I constantly refined my ability to present persuasively and engage my audience. For instance, in the INNOV8 pitch, I strategically integrated rhetorical questions into my speech to capture the audience’s attention and foster emotional engagement, demonstrating a crucial element within the rubric. Furthermore, I sought ongoing feedback from peers and teachers to elevate the clarity and impact of my messaging, demonstrating the importance of feedback as an integral element of communication observed within figures 1 and 2. My collaboration skills flourished, particularly in my partnership with Arjun. Recognising his complementary strengths in persuasive speaking and

presentation delivery, I strategically partnered with him to strengthen the project’s outcome. When I was absent due to Duke of Edinburgh commitments, I proactively delegated tasks to ensure the project’s momentum continued, demonstrating responsibility and effective delegation, both critical collaboration behaviours as analysed within figure 3.  In regards to creativity, developing Elev8 demanded persistent innovation. Facing numerous obstacles in refining the program model, I demonstrated resilience by continually adapting and modifying our solutions, showing that creativity extends beyond initial ideas to include perseverance through iterative problem solving seen in figure 4. My critical thinking was exercised through extensive research and analysis, particularly while developing Elev8’s detailed funding model and case studies. Committing to rigorous analysis of real-world education inequities allowed me to present deeply informed solutions backed by credible data as showcased in figure 4. Collectively, these developments have transformed my approach to problem-solving and learning overall.

The skills I’ve developed through Action Project are highly transferable and will serve me in future academic and professional settings. Whether developing solutions in future entrepreneurial ventures, collaborating in teams or presenting complex ideas, I now have a robust toolkit of communication, critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills that I can apply confidently.

Naturally, challenges arose throughout the process. One major hurdle was initially lacking confidence in my creative and critical thinking capacity. Early formative tasks exposed my weaker areas, leading to anxiety about my ability to develop innovative solutions. However, through cultivating my self-efficacy, I translated confidence into productive momentum. I recognised that by believing in my ability to push through these setbacks, I was able to produce higher quality, more creative outputs. This has since become a critical mindset I apply in all areas of my learning. Additionally, managing the extensive workload, particularly in the lead-up to the INNOV8 Expo, proved overwhelming. For instance, balancing website creation, poster design, video editing and script refinement simultaneously created significant stress. To overcome this, I adopted emotional regulation strategies maintaining a growth mindset, employing relaxation techniques and effectively communicating with Arjun to redistribute tasks which allowed me to regain control and complete the project successfully.

As a learner, I’ve grown tremendously. I now recognise that most barriers can be overcome through structured problem-solving and resilience, reducing unnecessary stress in high-pressure situations. Moreover, reflecting on my self-efficacy has revealed its immense value: when I trust my ability, I produce stronger, more effective work. This confidence will be crucial as I continue into more complex learning experiences.

On a personal level, I have discovered my aptitude for creative, innovative thinking and my genuine passion for entrepreneurship. The process of developing Elev8 has reaffirmed my interest in pursuing future projects that create a meaningful impact. Additionally, my enhanced communication and collaboration skills will allow me to build stronger relationships, engage with diverse stakeholders, and persuade effectively in future endeavours.

In conclusion, Action Project has not only equipped me with highly refined academic skills but has also transformed me personally, preparing me to confidently face future challenges with resilience, creativity, and a genuine drive to create meaningful, positive change.

Link to the doc:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/15Q9bdsKO8lhQhMcbhR4R5K82GOElvx7NGPj-FsSNDyg/edit?usp=sharing

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Final Action Project Reflection - Max Ha