Authentic Learning Task (ALT) #1: Are We Too Cool?

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Overview

This ALT addresses planning and executing the appropriate variable control chart that considers the forms of variation found in measuring the temperature variations within a particular facility (in this case, the meeting room in which the activity will take place). These forms of variation include:

• location (within, between, or over time)
• measuring instruments
• operator (data collector or reader)
• effects of time

This activity highlights some of the sources of variation inherent in the data collection process, as well as the amount of inherent variation in a property (in this case, room temperature) which we would normally expect to be uniform. After collecting and completing the charting techniques, you determine if the facility is capable of meeting a specified temperature variation, and you outline an appropriate improvement plan.

After completing this ALT, you should be able to demonstrate the following competencies:

• Apply the concepts of "forms of variability" and "process dominance" to the selection of an appropriate control technique (Comp. 1).
• Acquire, analyze, and interpret data from a process to determine if the process is in statistical control and capable of meeting customer requirements (Comp. 2).
• Apply problem-solving techniques to the development of an improvement plan for processes that are not in statistical control and/or not capable of meeting customer requirements (Comp. 3).

Materials and Equipment
No materials or equipment are needed for this ALT.

Safety and Disposal
Do not use mercury thermometers in this or any other module activity. Mercury is a hazardous material and, because breakage is a possibility, mercury thermometers must not be used.

Pre-Activity

To prepare for the activity:

• Read Instruction Sheet: The X-MR Chart in your Process Control Participant Journal.
• Read the following ALT #1 preparatory material and learning objects.

Activity

In your team, perform the following steps to complete the activity:

1. Your mediator will explain the parameters for this activity.
2. According to your instructor's instructions, complete Instruction Sheet: The X-MR Chart, Instruction Sheet: The Xbar-R Chart, and all related data sheets.

Post-Activity

Your team should now post all of its results from the activity to the Discussion Board.

Assignment
There are no instructions to prepare for ALT #2: Hats Off to Us!

Assessment
Your facilitator may use Assessment Sheet: Are We Too Cool? to evaluate your results from the activity and your posting to the Discussion Board.

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