γ3 Working with Experts and Stakeholders

Philosophy
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Introduction

Because PLTW courses require original solutions, resources beyond those the instructor can provide are typically required. It is common for students to need to reach out to individuals outside the school for expertise. It may seem difficult to find an expert that deals directly with your topic or problem; however, industry professionals and postsecondary staff are two great options when looking for experts.

Professionalism: Remember that you are asking for help from experts. You should show them respect in all interactions.

  • In all cases avoid slang and speak with intelligence and confidence.
  • In written correspondence avoid slang, use correct grammar, and do not shorten words or skip capitalization.
  • If you will be using email correspondence, make sure your email address is appropriate and professional. You may need to create a new email account to obtain an address that is more professional if your current address is too casual.
  • Do not send mass emails. Try to identify a specific individual with which to correspond and address your email to that specific person. Explain why you chose to email this individual specifically so they understand that you know something about their specific area of expertise and wish to correspond with them for a reason.

Strategies for Making Contact

Industry

  • Local industries and businesses can be very helpful because they have a vested interest in your community and may be able to meet with you personally. Use the phone book or an Internet search to determine how to contact local experts.
  • When researching companies online, search for staff directories. Email or call individuals based on their titles and your judgment of who will be most helpful. Most websites will have a “contact us” link at the top or bottom of their page.
  • Before contacting a potential expert, research the company so that you can give a coherent connection between your project and the company.

Postsecondary Staff

  • Colleges and universities can offer research resources, expertise, and (if they are local) the use of specialized equipment and tools.
  • Depending on the type of information and resources in which you are interested, search the institution’s website(s) for faculty members that have the appropriate expertise.
  • Consider searching for administrative staff members to whom you can describe your work. These individuals may be able to put you in touch with the staff member that can best support your efforts.

Correspondence Tips

  • Be sure that your instructor is aware of all correspondence. Your instructor must have the opportunity to review every written piece of correspondence that will be sent to an expert.
  • Take detailed notes of all correspondence that you have with experts and mentors and review these notes before further contact with an individual to demonstrate that you appreciate and are benefiting from their help.
  • Whether corresponding with industry or postsecondary experts, be sure to include the following in your initial conversation.
    • Your name, school, and location
    • Description of EDD and the purpose of the project
    • Explanation of how you received the expert’s contact information
    • Explanation of how, specifically, the expert can help you in your work
    • Student and instructor contact information
    • Note: If you are uncertain that you have contacted the right person with your email or phone message, briefly explain this and ask the contact to forward your information to the appropriate expert.
  • Close every contact, whether verbal or written, whether positive or negative, with a thank you. You should also ask for a lead to another expert who might provide additional information and resources.

Documentation: Be sure to include contact information for all experts and mentors in the Contacts section of your engineering notebook.

It is crucial to keep a detailed account of each correspondence. Each correspondence should be noted in your engineering notebook in the chronological section; however, you may choose to use electronic means in order to record the specifics of the correspondence rather than handwrite your notes directly into your engineering notebook. The Correspondence Log can be used and information inserted into your notebook. Note taking and information management software, such as Microsoft OneNote, can also be used to organize documentation throughout your project design process.