Transfer Activity: Wings and Things

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Overview

As the culminating activity of the module, the Transfer Activity provides an example of a typical situation you may encounter in your career.

In this Transfer Activity, you determine the best design for a paper helicopter to maximize its hang time (the average time it takes the helicopter to hit the floor after it is released). You begin by deciding which factors are most likely to have a significant effect on the output and on what levels these factors will be tested. Building on the skills acquired through the ALTs of this module, you perform a full factorial experiment with interaction and replication. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) is used as well to test for significant factors and interactions.

You apply the competencies developed in the ALTs:

• Use sound sampling techniques and data analysis to make repeatable, defensible inferences (Comp. 1).
• Solve real world problems by designing and conducting factorial and fractional factorial experiments (Comp. 2).
• Use Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to interpret experimental results (Comp. 3).
• Graphically display outcomes using regression analysis to communicate the recommended action based on the experiment (Comp. 4).

Materials and Equipment
No materials or equipment are needed to complete the Transfer Activity.

Safety and Disposal
No special safety or disposal procedures are required.

Pre-Activity

To prepare for the activity, refer to and review the Pre-Activities in ALT #1, ALT #2, ALT #3, ALT #4, ALT #5, and ALT #6.

Activity

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

1. Create three helicopters using Template: Paper Helicopter.
2. With your team, determine three two-level factors that you believe are most significant to the hang time of the helicopter.
3. Complete Instruction Sheet: Wings and Things.

Post-Activity

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

Assessment
Your facilitator may use Rubric for Evaluating the Transfer Activity to evaluate your results from the activity and your posting to the Discussion Board.

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