capstone project layout

AP Capstone Project: APA Format & Paper Organization

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Your Capstone Paper

Your capstone paper will fall into one of the following categories:

L iterature review :   A literature review is a critical summary of what the scientific literature says about your specific topic or question. This kind of paper demonstrates your familiarity with work in the field. If you chose to research a certain topic or concept in depth, you will most likely write a literature review.

Experimental Report:   If you conducted original research for your capstone or collected data based on observations , your paper will be an experimental report. You will still need to include a summary of the past and current research about your topic, but unlike a literature review, you will also include some analysis as well as your own data gathered from an experiment or observations. 

Everyone's capstone paper should contain the following elements: a title page, abstract, introduction, body, conclusion, and reference list.   Click on the link below to open and make a copy of the capstone paper template. If you have any questions, please come see Ms. Forfa (earlier is always better!)

Capstone Paper Editable Template

Other Helpful Resources:

• Help with In-Text Citations in APA Format
• APA Sample Paper This is useful, especially if you need help formatting your reference list!
• Citing & Referencing in APA Format
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How to Write a Capstone Project like an Expert

This guide describes all the steps needed to create a capstone project, including choosing a topic, structuring the paper, and writing in a scholarly manner.

A capstone project is a research assignment that many students must complete as part of their undergraduate or master’s degree. It differs from other types of final papers such as a thesis or dissertation because it has a practical nature. Capstone projects call for a student to review a certain problem, often specific to the writer’s interests or experience, and conduct research to evaluate or resolve the detected issues. The goal of such assignments is to involve students in their future professional sphere (Weaver 2). Moreover, capstone projects assess how students use critical thinking skills and the knowledge they have acquired during a course.

Choosing a Topic

It is clear that your selection must be connected to your sphere of education. For example, if you are a medical student, your capstone project will likely be focused on health-care interventions. For future biologists and chemists, chosen topics will reflect their field of expertise. Nevertheless, these assignments can be made more personal as follows:

• Search for a topic that interests you. Selecting a theme that does not spark your interest can negatively affect your attention and the quality of your writing. You may neither be able to concentrate on your paper nor conduct in-depth research. Think about your experience, both educational and professional. Has there been a problem or issue that you noticed and wanted to solve? This capstone project may be your chance to do that.
• Consider the format of the assignment. What does your instructor ask you to include in the project? Anticipate the composition of the future paper and the various components it should contain. Do you have to conduct research, and do the results have to be measurable? Adjust your topic to reflect the instructions. Since in most cases students have to confirm the topic with their advisors before writing, you will be able to get some help if you are struggling to find suitable subject matter.
• Take into account the project’s length. Depending on the number of requested pages, you may need to broaden or narrow your topic. Try to estimate how much space each part of the project will take up, and choose a research area that has enough information.
• Research existing literature on the topic. If your topic is too narrow or too recent, you may not find enough academic literature to support your research. In contrast, if the topic is too broad, you may be overwhelmed by the amount of available information.

Capstone projects usually follow a specific structure:

• Abstract. Although it is located at the beginning of the written project, the abstract should be written last. It is a summary of the entire study; you can approach it as soon as you are sure that every other part is complete. Do not confuse the abstract with the introduction of the paper—abstracts contain enough information to interest the reader in the entire project. Thus, they must capture the essence and relay main concepts, hypotheses, research methods, and findings.
• Introduction. In this section, you will acquaint your readers with the topic you have selected. Sometimes, an introduction is split into multiple smaller categories such as “Purpose of the Paper” or “Research Questions,” but they can be located in this part since they present the topic. Here, you should introduce the issue and connect it to your sphere of academic knowledge or course. In addition, you may discuss why this research problem is significant. Next, list the formulated research questions or hypotheses that will guide the investigation. State the objectives that you wish to achieve with the help of this project. Finally, if it is required, include a thesis that succinctly describes the aims and beliefs of the capstone project.
• Literature Review. A review of the existing literature is a vital component of any research endeavor. Here, you will search for academic and other reliable sources that are connected to your topic. These articles, books, trials, and studies will be used as a foundation for the research. Sources can contain pertinent findings, discuss well-examined methodologies, present new ideas, and confirm or refute earlier findings. Document the results of your search and analyze them; look for gaps in knowledge. What themes are not explored well or missing altogether? What should or can be researched in more detail? You can attempt to fill in these gaps with your findings.
• Methodology. In this section of the project, you will talk about how your research is to be conducted.
• First, describe your research design; it can be qualitative, quantitative, or mixed (a combination of the two). Each type also has many subcategories. Choose one, and explain why it works the best for your topic.
• Next, state your independent and dependent variables if needed for your selected design. Independent variables are what you choose to investigate (for example, different training programs for employees). Dependent variables are affected by independent ones (for example, employee performance after training).
• Describe the sample for your project. Who are the participants, and how many of them are involved? What are the inclusion and exclusion criteria for research?
• List the materials and tools you used in conducting research. Here, you can introduce questionnaires, online tests, and other media created for this project.
• Write about the process of conducting research, discussing all the major elements of the procedure. What were the participants asked to perform? How were the results collected?
• Discuss how you analyzed the results, listing measurements, tests, and calculations. Explain why you chose each method, and support your selections with previous research.
• Results. This is a significant part of the project, where you show the results of the conducted research. Refrain from making any assumptions or conclusions here—state the results without interpretation. You can use graphs, tables, and images to illustrate findings. Remember to present data that will answer all the research questions and hypotheses you introduced earlier. Check the findings’ validity and significance if required by the chosen research style.
• Discussion. Here, you should analyze the revealed results—be critical and attentive. Try to find patterns or show correlations in the findings. Talk about the context. What does previous academic literature tell you about this study? Does it contradict or align with your findings? Think about the importance and implications of your results. Does this study add something new to the sphere of knowledge? Do not forget to consider the limitations of your project—what could make the research more reliable? Finally, introduce some questions for future research and encourage additional investigation.
• Conclusion. Some papers include a conclusion in addition to the discussion. Restate all major information from the study here, presenting it concisely. Do not propose any new ideas or data in this part. The function of a conclusion is to wrap up the project and talk about all important judgments.

Writing Process

In addition to adhering to the structure described above, you should also remember to pay attention to your writing process. Do not be afraid of making drafts before writing the final version; they will help you structure your arguments and findings. After completing the paper, be sure to proofread it as mistakes and inconsistencies can make the written project difficult to read, confusing, or even incorrect. If you think you need someone else’s opinion, ask for it—turn to your instructor, writing center, or other knowledgeable persons that will help you revise the text if necessary. Check all tables and graphs, and make sure that a reader can understand them as well as you do.

Capstone projects give students an opportunity to apply their knowledge in practice. They are designed around a narrow topic that investigates a real problem, using a specific structure that is followed in the majority of cases: an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and discussion are essential elements of every capstone project. These assignments use a scholarly voice and require in-depth knowledge of previous scholarly literature. Like all academic papers, they need to be substantiated with evidence and be clear and unbiased. Lastly, proofreading is an important part of scholarly writing as well. This paper shows the writer’s level of preparedness after completing a course. Follow the provided guidelines and remember to be attentive—these rules should help you complete a high-quality capstone project.

Weaver, K. F., et al. “The Benefits of Peer Review and a Multisemester Capstone Writing Series on Inquiry and Analysis Skills in an Undergraduate Thesis.” CBE—Life Sciences Education, vol. 15, no. ar51, 2016, 1-9.

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How to Write a Capstone Project

The process of studying in college is associated with writing various papers . This is necessary for the development of critical thinking, improving the skills of analysis and information retrieval. But some projects are global in nature and are a kind of culmination of learning. One of the striking examples is the capstone project. Many students perceive it as the most difficult stage in their life. But don't panic, and let’s find out what is a capstone project in college.

Capstone project definition cannot be put into multiple words. First of all, the capstone is a big two-semester project. If you are a student, then you have to choose a specific topic for research . As a rule, you have to prepare a paper and speech to tell about your research's most important aspects and results. The main goal of this project is to develop skills in searching and analyzing information. More often than not, you will need to write a paper. But there are other forms of this project as well. But what is a capstone? This is a mix of tasks. You might be making a multimedia presentation, a set of slides, or even making a video to showcase your research.

In the future, this project can become a part of your portfolio. The main prerequisite for this is the amount of profile data that you have analyzed and specified in the project.

What Is Involved in a Capstone?

After you have learned about the capstone college definition, you should proceed to the most important part. The first thing that awaits you is the choice of topic. Since capstone is a fairly large project, you need to approach this stage responsibly. A topic that is too narrow and specialized will not allow you to collect enough corroborated data from reliable sources .

After you inform your consultant about your chosen subject, you will receive recommendations on the research methodology or alternative suggestions. Next, you have to start research.

Main Stages of Capstone Project Development

You have to understand how to do a capstone project if you want to write a top-tier outline that will help you write a perfect paper. In most cases, tutors foresee the opportunity for students to pick a topic by themselves. By choosing a subject, a learner can research a topic that is interesting for them.

When a topic keeps learners engaged, the quality of work increases. A student has to submit a 200-word pitch to a tutor. They need to describe a chosen topic briefly and tell why they need to pick it. If the proposal is approved, learners go to the next stage.

Research is a crucial part as it is responsible for information gathering. Using the accumulated data, students come up with certain decisions that they present in their papers. The writing process implies a lot of different stages that have to be noted in an outline. Undergraduates need to analyze all the gathered information and present their findings in the capstone project. Learners also need to mention all the literature used for conducted analysis. In most cases, they also need to prepare a presentation to share their findings professionally.

Understanding how to write a capstone research paper will discover how your project has to look like when is completed. Having a strong understanding of what types of work should be done, you will create a top-notch outline .

How to Create a Capstone Project Outline

If you know nothing about creating a capstone outline, it's recommended to spend some time surfing the Internet to discover how to write papers' structures. Don't be shy to review the samples to understand how a perfect outline should look like . Also, you can find a template. It will help you create a top-notch structure by updating the pre-built structure.

Note, a structure can be different, depending on the provided instructions. Therefore, you have to read and understand all the requirements for your paper, as they may affect the outline of your assignment. If there are no specific instructions provided, follow the structure below.

The first heading that you have to write after the title page is abstract. It's a summary of your paper that doesn't exceed the 300-word limit. With the help of the abstract section, people can read a brief description of your research. They can discover a reviewed problem, learn more about analysis conducted, read about findings and outcomes. It's recommended to write it after finishing a paper. Writing the abstract last, you will be able to create a perfect summary of your research.

Introduction

In the first chapter of a capstone project, you have to hook a readers' attention and present a received question. Feel free to write about the main topic in more detail and tell why it is important to research it. Also, you can specify the question on what you want to find an answer to. In this block, you have to write a thesis statement. The introduction should also imply the literature review to tell readers about already conducted studies on the reviewed problem.

The body section has to imply three major elements that are methods, results, and discussion. In the methods chapter, you will be required to describe how you conducted your study in more detail. You can write about the ways of data collection. The result chapter should present your findings. They also can include charts, diagrams, and graphs. If the information obtained can be inaccurate due to any possible limitations, you ought to keep readers informed.

In conclusion, you need to restate the reviewed problem and tell readers about the outcomes briefly. Also, you need to explain what the obtained results mean and how they affect the industry. It's vital to tell about all the findings, even if some of them don't match your overall capstone project's outcome. If there are any further studies required, don't forget to notice this.

Capstone Project Outline Format

There are no multipurpose capstone format rules that can be applied to any project. You have to check the instructions provided by your instructor to create a paper that matches all the requirements. In case you didn't receive any directions on how to write a capstone, format your assignment following the standard rules.

For starters, you need to pick the proper page properties. You should pick a single-sided page with the size of 8.5 inches x 11 inches. Write using the 12pt. Times New Roman font. The entire text has to be double-spaced. All chapters in your outline should be arranged in the hierarchical structure using the numbered list. The main headings need to be marked by roman numbers. First-level sub-headings need to be marked by letters:

In case you have already gathered a lot of information about your research question, you need to create a detailed outline that will help you write a comprehensive project by following the roadmap. Down below, you will find a thorough sample capstone paper outline that you can use as a base for your project creation. Don't forget to update it according to your needs:

Concluding Words

You should consider a capstone as the final milestone in your education. You will have to study a lot of data and confirm your knowledge. One of the main advantages is creative freedom and the ability to choose between standard paper, video, or presentation. Most students will have to make a speech, so it’s necessary to prepare a script or slide comments in advance.

If you don't know how to write a capstone project, you must start gaining your skills by creating an outline . It's a base that can help write a well-thought-out paper and not exceed the word limit. The information from the post above will help you discover how to create a professional capstone structure, even if you're a freshman who does it for the first time. Having no experience writing this type of academic work, you need to show your project outline to an instructor and get it approved first.

CAPSTONE PROJECT: Parts of a Capstone Project

• Parts of a Capstone Project
• Voice in the Capstone Project
• Analysis of Qualitative Data

What a Table of Contents Could Contain

I      Introduction        A     Statement Of Problem/Opportunity (Research Question)        B     Background, Context, And Significance Of Study        C     Project Researcher Identification II     Literature Review        A     Subheadings (Themes Discovered In Review)        B     Notice Of Gaps In Knowledge III    Methods        A     Subjects/Participants        B     Data Collection Approaches/Strategies              1     Advantage Of Strategy              2     Limitation Of Strategy              3     Potential Risk              4     Ethical Issues About Collection Upon The Subjects/Participants        C     Data Analysis Approaches And/Or Software (NOT The Results Themselves, Just How You Are Going To Analyze The Data – Coding Method, Analysis Of Interviews/Recordings, Mathematics And Stats Analysis) IV     Results, Findings, Interpretation, And Discussion V      Recommendations, Application, And Conclusion VI     Reference Pages

What Goes Into Each Section

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Capstone Project Proposal: What It Is And How to Write One

by  Antony W

January 2, 2023

What would be your reaction if you spent months carrying out a school project, only for it to be thrown out on grounds of being irrelevant, inadmissible, or downright outrageous? Not very happy, I would say. To avoid such scenarios and censor the type of projects being carried out, schools require that every student taking this kind of an assignment to submit a capstone project proposal first.

Every capstone project begins with a project proposal. It is submitted to your instructor or school panel that reviews and either approves or rejects it. Thus, you can also think of a proposal as a plan or project blueprint.

Given that the capstone project proposal is integral to your success in the whole thing, we at Help for Assessment are here to show you how to do it properly.

Our expertise in all forms of academic writing includes a specialty in capstone projects, which is why we’re the perfect people to help you. We will also   do your capstone project proposal for you at very affordable prices. Visit our homepage to learn more about us and what we can do for you.

Back to the capstone project proposal guide. This article will cover all the main aspects of how to write it including:

• What is a capstone project proposal
• Qualities of a good capstone project proposal
• How to write a capstone project proposal
• Format of a capstone project proposal

What is a Capstone Project Proposal? 

A capstone project proposal is a brief document that outlines what your capstone project is about, the steps you intend to follow while doing it, the resources you will need, and an outline of the project itself. It is more or less your blueprint for the entire project.

The purpose of a capstone project proposal is to help your instructor understand what your project is about. In the case where you are seeking assistance from the school such as funding or the use of school facilities, the proposal helps to convince them of why those resources should be allocated to you.

The proposal is also a big help to you as a student. Before you commit a lot of time and resources to the project, it forces you to take a look ahead at where you're going, what you want to achieve, and the investment you will need to put in to do that.

Capstone projects vary widely from discipline to discipline, but the proposal follows a standard format. Your instructor might provide you with a template and accompanying instructions, or they may not.

In any case, there are certain qualities you need to aim for if your proposal is to be successfully approved.

Qualities of a Good Capstone Project Proposal

The length of a good capstone project proposal should be between 1 and 4 pages.

Anything longer is discouraged unless your instructor says otherwise. Thus, refine it until it is concise, clear, and direct. 

2. Structured

The information flow should be clear and logical. It should be a document that a person can scan through in minutes and get what you’re talking about.

Thus, present it in an easy to understand manner.

3. Straightforward

The person reviewing your proposal wants answers to questions such as:

What is your project about? How will you do it? What resources will you need, and how will you get them? Who will be involved? 

Provide these answers simply and directly in your proposal and you stand a much better chance of impressing them. The content of the proposal should all aim toward this one goal.

4. Compelling 

The language you use should be convincing. Be confident about what you want to do, be enthusiastic, and share your enthusiasm.

Prove why you think the project will work and how relevant it is in your field.

5. Detailed

Even though the proposal should be brief, include as much detail as is needed to support your points. 

Format of a Capstone Project Proposal

This will be the same title you will use in the capstone project write-up, so take your time to craft a brief, direct, all-inclusive title for the proposal.

One way to come up with a good title is to write down the research problem as a question then craft your title in response to that question.

You should also try to make the title as intriguing as possible to get your readers interested in what you have to say.

In 150-200 words, describe what the project is about. Give the rationale for the project, i.e, why you think it is important and should be carried out.

Also, describe your methodology, analysis, and expected findings.

Think of the rationale as to the social implications of the project you are about to undertake.

How will it help the organization you work for or society at large? Describe the original contributions your project will have to the target group.

Research Problem

This is the problem statement of the project proposal. Give your thesis statement in one sentence, keeping in mind that it is the same statement you will use in the actual project write-up.

In the case of a project deliverable or creative project, describe the product you will develop, and the rationale behind it.

Describe what format your deliverable will be, e.g. a video, website, software, new curriculum, health or education program, policy paper, etc.

You should   write a descriptive literature review of all the sources you have used and cited for your project proposal including books, online sources, and papers. 

You can use these same sources in the project itself or choose to go for another set.

Methodology/Project Design

Explain how you intend to do what you want to do. Start with the method of inquiry which can include textual research, scientific experimentation, statistical data collection, qualitative study, or any other method.

Describe also, in detail, how this data will be gathered, processed, analyzed, and what resources or manpower will be needed to do this.

At the same time, explain the hypotheses and theoretical academic approaches in use which form the backbone of your project.

Detail the steps of your project and state when you expect to do what. This can usually be given in the form of a table with specific dates.

Also, state when you will be meeting with your supervisor/mentor and giving progress updates.

Description of the Final Product/Expected Results

For a research project, explain what results you expect based on existing data about the same.

For creative projects, describe what the final product will be, how you expect it to look like, and how it will work. How will it help/affect the target group? How will you evaluate its efficacy and success?

Such a project will also need specific documentation, usually called a rationale report or just a report. Describe such kind of documentation format.

Resources Needed Including Expected Budget

This is a crucial part. Give a detailed record of all the resources you expect or need to use in the course of your project.

If you need funding, give a breakdown of how the money will be used and how much in total is needed.

State how you expect it to be funded, either through school funding or external sponsorship.

In the same way, state what school resources you need. Laboratory access, data access, support by school personnel, computers, or machines belonging to the school or an outside entity, and everything in between.

Reference list

This is a list of all the citations and sources used while writing the project proposal. 

Tips on How To Write a Capstone Project Proposal

• The capstone project isn't meant to be a mere outline. Make it captivating by highlighting its real-world relevance and how it will benefit the target group. Use data where possible as proof.
• Say something about your motivation for choosing to carry out that particular project. Include some information about your background experience and why it qualifies you to carry it out. That way, your audience can connect with you and the project on a deeper level.
• Be very careful about the resources you wish to use. Restrict yourself to primary and secondary sources with a high academic credibility level. Doing so gives your project more merit.
• Follow the instructions supplied by your instructor faithfully. In many cases, you will be given a template or detailed guide about how you should format the proposal.
• Spend quality time on the title, hypotheses, and research problem. That way, your project will gain focus and have a clear scope.
• Quote sparing. Unless you have good reason to choose a quoted phrase rather than a paraphrase, stick to your own words but make sure you cite sources used.
• Review previous capstone projects and proposals done by students in your school to find out what is expected of you and get an idea on how to format your own.

Get Help With Your Capstone Project

Are you having trouble with your capstone project proposal? We strongly suggest that you get the experts involved. You cannot afford to fail at this stage because the entire project relies on it.

Let Help for Assessment handle your capstone project proposal for you and you will be assured of success. 

Thanks to our student-friendly prices, you are assured of a deal of a lifetime. Check out our service page and grab our first-time discount before it is too late!

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

How to Write a Capstone Project?

05 May, 2020

7 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

Depending on your professor, he or she may define a capstone project as a capstone experience, a senior exhibition, or a culminating project. All of these terms refer to the assignment known as the capstone project. So what is a capstone project? Good question!

If you’ve never had to do one before, don’t worry—you surely have the skills to complete it. According to The Glossary of Education Reform, this particular type of assignment is “…a multifaceted assignment that serves as a culminating academic and intellectual experience…”. Simply put, the goal of this assignment is to integrate a variety of skills and knowledge acquired throughout the length of an entire course.

Still wondering what is a capstone project? Here are a few more defining details. These types of projects are considered long-term and are assigned well before their due date. Students are often asked to select a topic of interest, conduct research, track their process, and create an original final project to share the entire process and findings. Capstone projects rarely culminate in a single paper. They often involve portfolios and/or a multimedia presentation of some sort as well as an oral presentation. Check out these capstone projects at Yale University.

While this type of assignment is for a single class, presentations may be presented in front of a panel of teachers or professors as well as community stakeholders. Capstone projects are long, involved, require a great deal of planning, and are often heavily weighted in a student’s overall grade. In short, they require students to demonstrate a wide variety of skills in a multi-stage assignment.

Related post: How to write a Research Paper outline

Capstone Project Outline

When you first receive this type of assignment, it’s a good idea to sit down and brainstorm a capstone project outline. Taking the time to map out your approach will save a great deal of time later. This type of project requires a broad range of skills including the following:

• Media literacy
• Independent work
• Oral communication
• Interdisciplinary

Identify any weak areas early and develop a plan to tackle them head-on. Most professors allow students to select the best presentation method for their capstone project; therefore, you’ll have the ability to select a final product that you’ll enjoy doing. This could mean creating a public service announcement or perhaps a pamphlet to be distributed at a local event. It could also mean presenting your research at an appropriate local event. The first step in approaching what is a term paper is to consider your final product. Once you’ve determined where you’re going, it will be much easier to plot a path to get there.

Once you’ve determined your final outcome, it’s time to create a capstone project outline. Brainstorm the best sources for research. Consider creating questioners for professionals in the field you’re researching and make appointments to interview them to get primary source information. Consider investigating multiple forms of information including newspapers, magazines, journals, and other informational texts. Consider the problem from various viewpoints to ensure that you’re covering all aspects of your chosen topic.

Next, you’ll need to organize all your research into logical groups to present it in some way. Whether you create a multi-media presentation, give a lecture, create a brochure, or air a PSA, the information will need to be easily accessible to the audience and accurate.

Related post: Argumentative essay topics

Capstone Project Format

Your capstone project format can take a variety of different shapes. Since each capstone project format may be different depending on the issue that you’re researching, it is very important to get approval for your idea from the teacher or professor. Before you begin any type of research, be sure that your project is in line with what the professor wants. Set up a meeting during office hours to review your goals, your approach, and your final product. Once you have approval, you’re good to go! Not sure how to approach your capstone project format? Here are some potential ideas:

• Creating a business plan for a product or service that would solve a current issue in the community; the plan will be presented and assessed to local industry leaders and community stakeholders
• Create an air a PSA concerning a local issue
• Write and illustrate a children’s book on an important issue; present the book to age-appropriate children and lead lessons on issues in the book
• Designing an app to help a specific population or address a specific community need

As you can see, a capstone project format can take a variety of different forms. While there is certainly writing involved in the “what is a capstone project”, the emphasis will be on the culminating project.

Capstone Project Writing

Once you’re finished with the capstone project format it’s time to get down to the capstone project writing. Depending on what your capstone project format it will depend upon the type of capstone project writing you’ll need to do. While some students will be focused on scripts and press releases, other capstone project writing will be more along the lines of formal reports or text for multi-media presentations.UTICA College has a great step by step guide for approaching all the parts of capstone projects. Whether you need to write a formal report or many smaller pieces of text for a brochure or oral presentation, the same rules apply. All capstone project writing should be grammatically perfect and well-organized.

Related post: Research paper topics list

Hopefully, this guide has answered basic questions regarding what is a capstone project. Remember: this type of assignment is meant to be a culminating activity. This means that it will rely on all the skills you’ve learned throughout the course to make it a success. Choose your topic wisely; you’ll be spending a great deal of time researching information, organizing it, and presenting it. Planning out your approach and setting milestones for your project will be essential to its success. You’ll need to avoid procrastination and work diligently throughout the duration of the project. Ask your professor and/or mentor for help; they will be invaluable resources during this important assignment.

Feel free to buy essay online with our pro essay writer service.

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What Is a Capstone Project & How to Write It: Definition, Outline, Steps

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A capstone project is a culminating academic project. It typically requires students to apply the skills they have gained during the course to a real-world problem. Capstone projects are common in undergraduate and graduate programs across a range of disciplines, including business, engineering, healthcare, and education.

Interesting fact, the first documented capstone project was completed in 1937 by Edgar F. Batten, who proposed to build an airport. It was considered a novel idea at that time, but it led to the development of Cleveland Municipal Airport. Today, they have come a long way, allowing students to showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. In this guide, we will define a capstone project and state its purpose in academics. We will also delve into its significance and provide an outline of how to do a capstone project. So, get ready for an exciting journey to become a capstone pro! Remember that you can always buy a capstone project from our academic gurus if you strive for maximum output.

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Capstone projects are vital in every school. Then, what is a capstone project ? Generally, it is research designed to showcase students’ knowledge, skills, and abilities in specific fields of study. This task is challenging and time-consuming, but once completed, it is rewarding. Capstone project is interdisciplinary in nature and can be completed in various formats, such as a written report, research paper , term paper , or presentation. It often involves independent research and analysis by an individual college or university student or group. For example, you could be asked to explore one topic or social problem that interests you, do extensive research about it, assess findings, and propose a solution. Based on the definition of capstone project, it is a culminating academic experience that typically takes place at the end of students' college education. Other basics include:

The main purpose of a capstone project is to assess your ability to integrate and apply knowledge acquired throughout your academic program. It gives you a chance to demonstrate mastery of a particular field of study, showcasing critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Capstone project serves several key goals:

The importance of capstone projects cannot be overstated. They supplement your academic journey, providing opportunities for you to demonstrate mastery of skills and knowledge, build real-world experience, and showcase your abilities to potential employers. Writing capstone paper can serve several important reasons, including:

A capstone project structure plays a crucial role in helping you write a successful paper. It provides a clear, organized framework for the capstone project, helping you ensure that you include all necessary parts. It will also guide you in the right direction, helping you find the best approach to complete your paper. Before you begin writing a capstone project paper, it is important to carefully review all guidelines provided by your academic program to ensure that it meets all requirements and is structured clearly and effectively. Here is a general structure of senior capstone project:

A sample capstone project outline is a visual representation of the paper structure and organization. It acts as a roadmap for writing, helping ensure that the project stays on track. The purpose of the capstone project outline is to provide an overview of all main elements and order in which they will be presented. Here is a template example of an outline for a capstone project:

A capstone project requires careful planning to show that you have a grasp of a particular discipline or subject. As such, it is important to understand the steps involved in the process and have a well-defined plan in place. The following subsections will guide you in writing a capstone project paper, from start to finish, giving you the roadmap to ensure a successful outcome. Each part is carefully detailed to help you understand what’s expected of you. Follow these steps to learn how to write a capstone paper:

Choosing a topic is an important step in writing a capstone project. It sets the foundation for your paper, determining how successful the final product will be. Always go for capstone project ideas that have not been extensively researched, allowing you to add new insights. Here are some steps to follow when choosing research topics :

Choosing a topic that is relevant, manageable, and of personal interest to you will help you stay motivated throughout your capstone writing process.

Conducting a thorough literature review is crucial in helping you understand the current state of knowledge on the topic, identifying gaps your capstone senior project can fill. Here's how to go about it:

By conducting a thorough literature review, you will write a capstone paper that is well-informed, grounded in latest research, and makes a meaningful contribution.

Based on research, define the problem statement you aim to address in your capstone research paper. It should be well-defined and specific. The problem statement should be clear, concise, and align with the research question. It should also be justified, explaining why the problem is important, including how it relates to current literature. Here are some steps to follow when defining a problem for a capstone project:

Defining a problem is important because it provides focus and direction for research. A well-defined problem will ensure that your capstone project writing is of high quality.

This section should describe methods you will use to collect and analyze data, as well as the rationale behind your choice. They should be appropriate, accurate, and reliable for the capstone project. You should also explain any final capstone project limitations, including how you plan to address them. Here are some steps to follow when introducing graduate capstone research methods:

Introducing research methods is important because it sets a foundation for your research. It will provide readers with a clear understanding of your methods, including rationale behind them.

This step involves presenting findings of the study and analyzing all data. When writing a capstone paper, provide a clear presentation of the results in addition to how they relate to the problem they aim to address. They should be presented in a logical, organized manner, and supported by evidence. In your capstone work, discuss their implications, including how they contribute to the existing body of knowledge. Here are some steps to follow when discussing key findings:

In this final step, you should present your capstone project in a clear, organized manner, highlighting key findings and significance of research conducted. This should be a well-structured, well-written paper or oral presentation that showcases your knowledge of how to do a capstone project on a specific subject. Capstone in college or university should be written in an academic style, following the guidelines set by the institution. The paper should also include an abstract, introduction, literature review, methodology, results section, discussion, and conclusion. For oral presentation, you may also be required to answer questions from the audience. So, it is important to be well-prepared and familiar with the paper content. It should effectively communicate your research findings to them. To make a successful presentation, here are a few suggestions:

A capstone project format can vary depending on the discipline or requirements set forth by your instructor or program. Most times, you may encounter the following common formats used in most capstone papers.

Regardless of the chosen format, ensure that your capstone paper is well-organized, has proper grammar, and is easy to read.

To ensure success in writing your capstone project, it is important to keep in mind some key practices. In this section, we will introduce you to common tips that can help you effectively plan, research, and write the paper. From choosing a suitable topic to proofreading the final draft, these tips on how to write a good capstone project will help you produce a successful paper that meets academic standards:

In this guide, you have learned what’s a capstone project definition, its benefits in education, purpose, and structure. Before you embark on writing your paper, make sure you fully understand the meaning of a capstone project paper and what it entails. This means taking the time to carefully research a topic, identify a clear problem to address, and develop a research plan that will help you find answers. Remember that the final product should be well-written, well-organized, and effectively communicate your key research findings. Once you begin to write your capstone, keep in mind the following tips:

FAQ About Capstone Projects

1. what is a capstone project in college.

A capstone project in college is the final piece of stone needed to complete a degree program. It often involves significant research proposal, presentation, or practical application of skills and knowledge acquired during their program. By definition, it is a requirement for graduation and may be evaluated for grades or other forms of academic recognition.

2. What is capstone project significance?

Capstone projects are significant because:

3. How long should a capstone paper be?

The length of a capstone project paper varies depending on set guidelines by the academic institution or instructor. On average, they can be between 20-25 pages long, sometimes 35, including any supporting materials, such as appendices or references. However, check specific requirements from your institution as they can cap the number of pages.

4. What is the difference between a capstone project and a thesis?

A capstone project and thesis are both academic works, but they carry significant differences between them. A thesis is typically longer, and more in-depth than a capstone project. It is often required for graduate students and is based on original research. Its focus is narrower and more specialized. A capstone project is often required for undergraduate students, mostly based on research or practical application. It is more interdisciplinary in nature, involving solving world problems.

• Use of academic knowledge Students apply knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their academic program to their papers.
• Collaboration with faculty members or industry professionals Students may work with faculty members or industry professionals to gain additional insight and guidance on their capstones.
• Presentation or defense Students may also be required to defend their capstone project in front of a panel of experts or live audience.
• Evaluation by committee A committee evaluates the student's paper to determine if they have met all academic requirements and project standards.
• Demonstrate student’s learning abilities As an educational strategy, capstone project can be used to show if the learner has acquired knowledge gained over the entire course.
• Improve students’ self-perception and confidence Typically, capstone projects allow students to take on new responsibilities and show commitment all through. Completing them boosts their self-esteem, self-awareness, as well as confidence.
• Boost career aspirations Since capstone projects involve working on real-world problems, students gain practical experience and prepare them for their future careers.
• Foster motivation and engagement Creativity involved in senior capstone projects, especially since students select them based on their personal interests, can motivate them to learn, engaging others in that process.
• Preparing for future careers By working on real-world issues and engaging in independent capstone research project, you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and presentation skills that are essential for successful careers.
• Encouraging innovation By providing you with an opportunity to tackle complex problems and come up with innovative solutions, capstone projects encourage creativity.
• Demonstrating mastery of a particular field By successfully completing a capstone project, you demonstrate mastery of a particular field, setting yourself apart from others in the academic program as well as enhancing your marketability in the job market.
• Building your CV Prospective employers want to know more than just your academic performance. What is the capstone project you undertook in school? Adding them to your CV will inform them of your additional skills you possess.
• Building a sense of accomplishment Completing capstone essays can be a significant accomplishment, giving you pride and satisfaction for your hard work.
• Abstract Brief summary of the capstone project, typically around 250-300 words. It provides a concise overview of background information, objectives, methodology, results, and conclusion. It is often the first section that readers view to better understand your study's purpose and findings.
• Introduction This section provides an overview of the paper and sets context for your study. It includes a background on the topic, a clear problem statement or issue being addressed, research questions, and objectives. It should also highlight how your paper will be structured.
• Literature Review It provides a comprehensive overview of relevant research on the topic, including an analysis of previous studies, gaps in literature, and theoretical framework that will guide your study. It is important to provide thorough and well-structured literature review to support your research questions.
• Methodology In this section, you outline research design types, data collection and analysis methods, and sampling procedures that will be used to address your research questions. It should also give detailed description of the research process, including rationale for methods chosen and procedures followed to ensure validity and reliability of data collected.
• Results Here you present your study findings, including statistical analyses, tables, graphs, and figures that illustrate the results. They should be presented in a well-organized manner, focusing on answering your research questions.
• Discussion This section provides an interpretation of results, connecting findings to literature and research questions, further discussing their implications. The discussion should give critical evaluation of results, considering the limitations for future research.
• Conclusion It summarizes the main study findings, providing recommendations for future research. This section should be a clear and concise summary of results, tying the findings to research questions and objectives.
• References This section provides a comprehensive list of all sources cited in the paper, formatted according to appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, etc.).
• Appendices If necessary, this section includes additional materials that support the main study findings, such as survey instruments, raw data, or transcripts of interviews.
• Background of the topic
• Purpose of study
• Research questions
• Overview of paper structure
• Overview of relevant research
• Analysis of previous studies
• Gaps in literature
• Theoretical framework
• Research design
• Data collection and analysis methods
• Sampling procedures
• Rationale for methods chosen
• Procedures to ensure validity and reliability of data
• Presentation of study findings
• Statistical analyses
• Tables, graphs, and figures
• Focus on answering research questions
• Interpretation of results
• Connection of findings to literature and research questions
• Implications of findings
• Critical evaluation of results
• Study limitations
• Implications for future research
• Summary of main findings and conclusions
• Recommendations for future research
• Comprehensive list of all sources cited in paper
• Additional materials that support main study findings
• Identify area of interest Think about your interests, passions, and academic strengths. This will help you choose a topic that you are genuinely interested in or are well-suited to research.
• Consider the project scope Make sure the topic is manageable within a specified timeframe and resources available to you. In particular, it should be narrow enough to allow you to focus, but broad enough to provide enough material for a comprehensive analysis.
• Review the coursework Take a look at all courses you have taken so far and consider how they relate to your chosen topic. Remember the paper should be built on knowledge you have acquired throughout your academic journey.
• Consult your supervisor A capstone project advisor can provide valuable guidance and feedback on the topic. They can help you refine it, ensuring that it is relevant to the field of study.
• Research your topic Once you have a few potential topics, research each one to determine their feasibility, availability of resources, as well as scope of literature.
• Make a decision After you have conducted your research, choose one topic that you are most interested in and that you believe will be the most rewarding.
• Start by brainstorming keywords or phrases related to the topic, using them to search databases, such as Google Scholar , JSTOR , and other relevant academic sources.
• Pay attention to relevant theories and studies as you research. This will help you get a sense of what has already been done, what questions remain unanswered, and what you can contribute to the field.
• Keep track of all sources, taking notes as you read. Organize them into categories, like creating an annotated bibliography that you can refer to later.
• Evaluate the quality of sources you found. Check if they are peer-reviewed or have been published in reputable academic journals.
• Synthesize the information you have gathered to identify themes or patterns. This will help you see the bigger picture and understand the research context.
• Use the synthesized information to refine the research question and hypothesis. Make sure that your research is original and adds to the existing body of knowledge.
• Review existing literature Conduct a thorough review of existing literature in your area of interest. This will help you identify any gaps in knowledge or areas that need further research.
• Identify the problem Based on literature review, identify a specific problem or issue that you would like to address. It should be relevant and of interest to you.
• Refine the problem Make it more specific and focused. Consider the project scope, available resources, and own abilities.
• Formulate a research question Based on the problem you have defined, formulate a research question that will guide your paper. It should be clear, concise, and answerable through research.
• Develop a hypothesis Develop a hypothesis that you will test through research. It should provide a potential answer to the research question.
• Choose research methods that are appropriate for the research question and hypothesis. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of different methods, and select the ones that are most suitable.
• Provide a clear explanation of why you chose the methods you did. Explain how they will help you answer the research question and test your hypothesis.
• Give a detailed description of research methods, including how you will collect data and analyze it. Be specific about what steps you will take, tools you will use, and data you will collect.
• Consider any ethical issues that may arise from using those research methods. Explain how you will ensure that research is conducted in a responsible manner.
• Review previous research that has used similar methods, considering any lessons learned from that. Explain how you will apply these lessons to your own research.
• Present results in a clear and concise manner. Use tables, graphs, and charts to help illustrate your findings.
• Interpret results based on your research question and hypothesis. Explain what the findings mean and why they are significant.
• Compare your results to those of previous research in similar fields. Explain how the results you got are similar or different from previous findings.
• Discuss research limitations and the strengths of methods used. Explain how they may impact the results.
• Discuss implications of the findings for your field of study or society as a whole. Explain how that research contributes to a broader understanding of the topic.
• Conclude your discussion of key findings by summarizing results and their significance. Highlight key takeaways while explaining why they are important.
• Plan your presentation carefully.
• Use visual aids, such as slides, charts, graphs, and images, to help you effectively communicate ideas or findings to the audience.
• Rehearse the presentation several times until you are confident and comfortable with its content and flow.
• Present only the most important information to avoid going into too much detail.
• Interact with the audience by asking questions or allowing for discussion.
• Be ready to answer questions from the audience, discussing your work in great detail.
• APA paper format Mostly used in social sciences, education, and psychology. It contains a cover page, abstract, introduction, method, results, discussion, references, and appendices.
• MLA paper format Commonly used in humanities, such as literature and language. You must include in-text citations and the Works Cited page.
• Chicago format Often used in history, business, and other disciplines. It involves using either footnotes or in-text citations and a bibliography page.
• Start early Give yourself enough time to research, write, and revise. Starting early will also give you enough time to address any obstacles that may arise when writing.
• Choose a suitable topic Pick a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study.
• Research thoroughly Gather as much information as possible from reliable sources. Conduct a comprehensive literature review to gain a deep understanding.
• Outline your ideas Organize ideas to create an outline for the capstone project. This will help you stay focused, ensuring the paper has a clear structure.
• Write clearly and concisely Use clear, concise language to communicate ideas. Avoid using technical jargon unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Cite your sources Properly cite all sources you use in the capstone project to avoid plagiarism. Follow the required citation style specified.
• Revise Take time to proofread the work. Check for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. Also, ensure that ideas are presented well.
• Seek feedback Ask a friend, mentor, or academic advisor to review your capstone assignment and provide feedback. This will help you identify any mistakes.
• Strictly follow the instructor’s guidelines.
• Only pick reliable sources for your capstone paper.
• Pay attention to the layout, format, and structure.
• Plan your time for completing the project wisely.
• Always seek feedback to ensure you are going the right way.
• They provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their mastery of a particular subject area.
• They allow students to apply knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their college degree in a real-world setting.
• They provide students with a sense of completion and achievement, helping them demonstrate the value of their college performance to potential employers or other stakeholders.

What Is a Capstone Project: Definition

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What is a Capstone Project in College?

The capstone project in college is the apogee, or completion marker, of a student’s coursework leading to the culmination of their program with a degree in their chosen field of study.

The original definition of a capstone focuses on the actual stone placed at the top of a wall or building, marking the successful completion of the structure. It is a significant and celebrated piece of architecture, considered to be the most important of an entire construction project.

Similarly, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) Associate Dean of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences Dr. Jeff Czarnec called the academic capstone project, whether in an undergraduate or graduate program, “the apex of all a student’s work done throughout their college career.”

There is an expectation that they have all the necessary skills and knowledge coming into the capstone course to be successful. “At this point, students have managed to pass all their course work leading up to the capstone,” said Dr. Thomas MacCarty , associate dean of social sciences programs  at SNHU. “It is the culmination of everything that has happened to them as students.”

Students have the opportunity to pick a research topic that is of interest to them and run with it. “After having to write research papers in all of their courses prior to [the capstone], the task is not one to dread, but to enjoy. It is their time to shine as students and to enjoy the journey,” MacCarty said.

The capstone is much more important than a requirement and three credits. It can serve as an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge mastery and creative thinking, which may help a graduate stand out from others vying for the same job.

What is Involved in a Capstone Project?

“Students are expected to be ready to enter the world as professionals in their field upon completion of the capstone course,” said MacCarty.

As in many other university courses, the capstone is research-based; the difference being that the student chooses the topic early on, allowing them more freedom to conduct research on their own, unlike in other courses which are more guided. Capstone topics align with the specific discipline of program study. In the social sciences realm, “our focus is on human behavior and cognition, which may be different from a capstone course in business or STEM,” MacCarty said.  

In a nutshell, a rough outline of a capstone, according to Czarnec, looks something like this:

• Select a topic and have it approved by the instructor
• Evaluate relevance to the proposal
• Perform necessary research
• Present results in the agreed upon fashion

Are Capstone Projects Difficult?

“Not necessarily,” said Czarnec. “It does force you to be efficient and very specific to topic. No fluff. Straight forward. Razor sharp. The capstone is more of an opportunity to catch your breath, retrace and pull up what you have learned in a more stress-free environment. It helps validate students as learners.”

Depending upon the major and course requirements, there may be opportunities to match students with outside contacts, not only to assist with the capstone project research and problem statement, but to also provide a networking community.

“Not every research project is, nor should they be, the same,” Czarnec said. “Everyone has a different approach.”

What is the Difference Between a Thesis and a Capstone Project?

A capstone is similar to a thesis in that the starting point involves strengths that one needs for a thesis or dissertation work. A student needs to think about the skeletal structure of research and form their theory, hypothesis, and problem statement.

“While a capstone is certainly a scholarly piece of work and does share some aspects of a thesis,” said MacCarty. “The time and detail that is required of a master’s thesis is greater.”

A capstone paper may be 25 pages, where a thesis could be 100 or more, and is a more demanding research paper. If an undergraduate student chooses to further their education and enter into a doctoral program, the capstone project could be an invaluable tool in preparing for a thesis.

It’s All About Student Success

According to Czarnec, capstones of all programs are leading students to the end game. The goal is to develop well-rounded thinkers who can pull their work together in a coherent, articulate, well-organized fashion, while considering the demands of the profession or vocation in which they are interested.

The focus and intent of a capstone should be to create an effective device to assess and measure all that the students have learned throughout their program in an aggregate fashion so they can demonstrate their life-long vocational skills in a nice, neat package. “My goal is for students to leave the program confident about their skills and abilities,” said Czarnec.

According to MacCarty, capstone courses should be structured to support student success in fulfilling program requirements and allow them the opportunity to showcase their academic abilities and skills gained throughout their degree program.

Laurie Smith '14   is a writer, editor and communications specialist. Connect with her on LinkedIn .

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Capstone projects for high school students: the ultimate guide.

A capstone project, otherwise known as a culminating project or a senior thesis, is a long-term, substantial assignment that you undertake in your final year of high school. If you are passionate about a particular subject a capstone project is the perfect way to demonstrate that passion to colleges, future employers, and your local community. 

Traditionally, a “capstone” is the final piece of brickwork or stone laid atop a building to complete it. It is the culminating step in a considerable process. For students, a capstone project is similar. It is a crowning achievement to tie together what you have learned in high school . Ideally, your capstone should relate to your academic accomplishments and demonstrate to colleges your mastery of the subject. 

Click above to watch a video on Capstone Projects.

Why are capstone projects important for high school students?

Capstone projects provide numerous benefits to students. Most obviously, they provide dedicated students with the opportunity to demonstrate their academic rigor and mastery of certain subjects. This is extremely useful in the context of college applications. However, there are several other important benefits that you can derive from this experience. 

• You may find that the simple process of designing your own project and carrying it to completion will engender self-belief and the confidence that you can undertake even greater projects. 
• A capstone project pushes you to hone your skills in public speaking, critical thinking, teamwork and leadership, research and collaboration, planning and organization, and many more. 
• You may be unsure of exactly what you want to focus on in college and beyond. 
• A capstone project gives you the chance to experiment with something that has always captured your academic attention. 
• If you are passionate about a hobby or discipline, a capstone project allows you to test whether you want to pursue this passion at a higher level. 
• This project will help solidify your goals and the focus of your academic future.
• One of the most significant aspects of a capstone project is the relationship that develops between mentor and student. 
• Many projects will require supervision or consultation with experts – often your teachers or members of your community. These relationships can provide innumerable benefits both in the long and short term. Tapping into the network of people around you, and showing respect and interest in their expertise will take you a long way. Most professionals love nothing more than discussing their passions with excited young people. 
• It never hurts to get more experts advocating for you and more community figures in your corner!
• Less seriously, senior year can often be a wasted year. You might find that – having already completed your standardized tests, applied to college, and completed most of your important courses – you no longer are engaged with school or required to complete much work. This is often seen as an opportunity for seniors to unwind, but there are dangers associated with this.
• Not least of which is the danger of losing academic momentum and developing poor habits. By undertaking a capstone project throughout senior year, you will be further engaged with schooling and less likely to suffer from the shock of returning to normalcy in freshman fall at college. 

How can a capstone project help you for college admissions?

College admissions is an extremely competitive and increasingly demanding process. As college applications become more and more comprehensive, students and parents have begun to see capstone projects as a way to gain an advantage. Many students are of the mistaken belief that colleges are primarily looking for well-rounded students.

Most high schoolers who are serious about college are encouraged to pursue interests even outside of their passions – you might have been told “you should play a sport, and an instrument, and be in the debate club, and volunteer locally, and travel!”

Apart from being stressful, and unattainable for the majority of young people, this is generally poor advice. Instead, it is better to have a handful of interests or passions that you can demonstrate a prolonged period of dedication to. This is where a capstone project fits in. 

Briefly imagine you are an aspiring scientist, determined to study biology at university. When you are applying to college you want to demonstrate that this passion is a deep one, and that it is a priority for you.

In that context, it makes much more sense to apply your time towards a study of local environmental degradation than towards an unrelated sport, club, or volunteer activity.

Additionally, colleges are becoming increasingly savvy about the affectations of prospective students. Showing a genuine, long-term interest in a particular academic discipline has reemerged as one of the surest ways to gain attention from the leading colleges.

You may also find that your capstone experience was so noteworthy or illuminating that you are inspired to write your personal statements or supplemental essays about it. At the very least, you will find that your capstone project helps tie together your academic pursuits and provides you with a useful narrative structure for college applications and interviews. 

How to brainstorm a capstone project

When sitting down to brainstorm a capstone project, it is important to remember that this is a personal process. It can be useful to study projects done by former students, to see what worked and what did not, and to encourage ideas of your own. But, ultimately, you want your capstone project to reflect your unique skills and interests.

Think about whatever you excel in academically. Or, perhaps, what you have always been passionate about but have long thought didn’t relate particularly to academics. Most importantly, consider what it is you want to focus your higher education and career on, and let that guide your decision.

There are limitless options for capstone projects. The only things to avoid are plagiarism and irrelevancy. Pick something that inspires you and that will provide you with a useful foundation to make the next step. If all else fails, ask people around you!

They may have a better idea of your strengths and weaknesses than you do. A simple conversation with a parent, friend, tutor, or teacher may lead you on a journey you never considered. 

How to find a capstone project

Trying to find an original capstone project can be challenging. In recent years, undertaking a capstone has become quite common with American students. As such, you might find it tricky to come up with an idea that doesn’t seem overdone or, worse, like plagiarism.

However, there is only one you! The composite parts of your interests may be shared by many, but the sum of your interests is unique to you. This means that sometimes you might find your best idea is an interdisciplinary one. 

Let us pretend you are a student who is interested in the environment, American history, and mapmaking. Now, if you were to try to come up with a capstone idea, you might begin by considering a study on the impact of environmental runoff in your local river or an investigation into the roots of different people living in your community.

You might then go online and see that such projects seem unoriginal or trite. Desperate and discouraged you might force yourself into one of these narrow approaches.

However, a better option would be to consider how to weave your many interests into one coherent capstone. For you, this could involve researching the construction and maintenance of wooded paths in your local forest or reservation going back to the precolonial era.

You might interview community leaders, study historical maps and texts, practice cartography, and ultimately enrich yourself in several areas at once. Needless to say, you would also produce a more authentic and unique capstone project. 

Consider: You are multifaceted, and the interactions of those facets are what makes you unique!

How long should a capstone project last?

Broadly speaking, a capstone project is intended to last for the bulk of your senior year. The majority of capstone projects are proposed in the summer between junior and senior year, or early in the fall, and then completed in the spring or summer of senior year.

However, there is no absolute rule here and indeed many schools encourage students to begin working on their capstone projects as early as freshman year. 

While there is no limit to how long you can work on your capstone project, there is a limit on how little. A capstone project by definition should be long-term and extensive. At a minimum, we are talking about several months.

The purpose is to demonstrate to colleges, your community, and yourself that you can undertake a project over a long period of time. This involves many skills that colleges prize, such as time management and planning, prioritization of tasks, determination, and diligence. 

Remember that a good capstone project cannot be rushed. You will likely want to be working on it for at least the bulk of your senior year. 

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How to design your own capstone project in simple steps.

• Proposal – Your big idea! The details of the proposal you will be expected to put forward will be different from school to school, but there are some general guidelines. A proposal should be initiated by the student and put forward to a professor, teacher, or community leader. This proposal should contain an observation and a hypothesis; review of existing literature; a planned study or experiment; and possible problems with the proposal. If the proposal is approved by an expert, you are ready to proceed to the next steps. 
• Anchor Experience – The main event! This is where you actually study something, observe, or conduct research. This may involve any number of things depending on your own project. This experience should usually involve a mentor and prolonged exposure to the subject at hand. 
• Portfolio – Evidence and conclusions of your work! Throughout your capstone project you should maintain a portfolio of all related writing, work, and research. Your portfolio should include any experiments run, observations recorded, or conclusions reached. It is what you will show to colleges to prove your work and what you will be expected to present at the end of your project. 
• Presentation – Defend your thesis or show it off! The final step of most capstone projects involves presenting your work to one or more experts in the field. Oftentimes, this just involves presenting your portfolio to the same teacher who approved your proposal and who has been acting as your mentor throughout. Sometimes, however, it may involve making a presentation before a large group of people and defending your thesis from questions and comments. The exact nature of your presentation will naturally differ depending on your choice of project. 

How to pick the best capstone project

Your capstone project should relate to your intended major . If you plan to study chemistry, don’t do a capstone project on romance literature. If you plan to study American history, don’t do a capstone project on marketing in your community.

If you have not yet decided what to major in or what you want to focus your college education on, then it makes sense to use your capstone project to experiment with something – try on the hat and see how it fits. 

Additionally, you want your capstone project to be something that inspires and motivates you. It is no good picking something that sounds brilliant and earthshaking in theory, but that will in practice bore or frustrate you. That is the surest way to produce poor quality work.

You should assess your own habits and motivations and come up with the best project that fits you. Colleges can usually tell a genuine interest from a manufactured one. Therefore, you should pick something which will allow you to show them your best work in a subject you are deeply immersed in. This will always produce the best results. 

While I have said previously that a capstone project can be a good opportunity to experiment with a possible interest, it is important to briefly elaborate on that to provide better context.

It is an opportunity to expand on a preexisting interest that you are not sure if you want to dedicate your education or career to. It is not an opportunity to manufacture a completely new interest. Remember, a capstone is meant to be the finishing touch on your entire schooling. It should always relate to and expand upon your previous work. 

It is therefore best to pick a capstone project that you function as the final step on a journey you have already been undertaking. If all else fails, consider your interests and passions and go from there. Even if it seems only tangentially related to academia, that would be better than choosing an academically sound project that doesn’t inspire you.

Capstone project examples

Conclusion: capstone projects in high school.

Be sure to discuss your options with your family and educators and consider what options work best for you given practical considerations. 

And, finally, do not be discouraged by the depth of capstone projects. Consider it not as a test to pass or fail, but rather an opportunity to learn, grow, and prove your unique brilliance!

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Guide to the ALM Capstone Project

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• Final Capstone Paper

While your final capstone can take other forms (e.g., digital media project or a policy paper for a local government), many students submit a standard research paper. The papers are formatted with eight main sections plus two optional parts (in parentheses):

• Summary /Abstract
• (Acknowledgements)
• Table of Contents
• Introduction
• Conclusions & Recommendations
• Literature Cited
• (Appendices).

Alternatively, with approval, you can use the format required by a competitive, peer-reviewed journal in your professional discipline; thereby, making your capstone project publication ready.

• Course Sequencing and Timeline
• Precapstone Tutorial
• Choosing a Topic
• Research Methods
• ENVR E-599 Past Capstone Titles and Examples
• Use of Human Subjects
• ENVR 599A Consulting for Sustainability Solutions Capstone
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DNP project guide: Designing your DNP project

• Support services
• Designing your DNP project
• Formatting tips
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• Submitting to the SU Libraries
• Submitting to SOAR@SU
• Submitting to ProQuest
• Archiving in the Henderson Repository

DNP project design

• A Nurse's Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Your Dissertation or Capstone by Karen Roush Call Number: Available online Publication Date: 2015
• DNP capstone projects : exemplars of excellence in practice by Barbara A Anderson; Joyce M Knestrick; Rebeca Barroso Call Number: Available online Publication Date: 2015
• Inquiry and leadership : a resource for the DNP project by Kathleen Reavy Call Number: Available online Publication Date: 2016
• Proposal Writing for Nursing Capstones and Clinical Projects (2nd edition) by Wanda Dr PhD RN Bonnel; Katharine Dr PhD RN Smith Call Number: Available online Publication Date: 2017
• The doctor of nursing practice scholarly project : a framework for success by Katherine J Moran; Rosanne Burson; Dianne Conrad Call Number: RT75 .D57 2014 Publication Date: 2014
• The doctor of nursing practice scholarly project : a framework for success (2nd edition) by Katherine J Moran; Rosanne Burson; Dianne Conrad Call Number: On order for SU Libraries Publication Date: 2017

Sample DNP projects

• The Virginia Henderson Global Nursing e-Repository (Henderson Repository) A resource of the honor society of nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International and the only digital repository solely dedicated to openly sharing works created by nurses. Includes full-text nursing research and evidence-based practice materials.
• ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Open ProQuest's open access repository with over 200 DNP projects available in full text
• ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global This link opens in a new window Provides access to digital dissertations, theses, and DNP projects worldwide
• DNP Final Document Projects From Ohio State University's institutional repository Knowledge Bank
• Nursing Commons Part of the Digital Commons Network. Includes a collection of DNP projects. From the menu on the left hand side, select Other Refinements - Publication - DNP Projects.
• Doctoral project repository From Doctors of Nursing Practice, Inc.
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Thesis and Capstone Formatting Guidelines

The paper for the two official copies of the manuscript is 8 x 11, at least 20% cotton content. Text should only be printed on one side.

The margins for the text, including page numbers, must be 1 inch at the top, bottom, and right side of the page, and 1 inches on the left side to allow for binding. Page numbers should be included within these margins.

The body of the document must be double-spaced. Tables may be single-spaced. Consult the style manual of your discipline for spacing after title, headings, quotations, references, etc.

The typeface for the text must be 12-point, serif typeface, e.g., Courier, Times Roman. Black ink should be used unless color is approved by the thesis/capstone director.

Page Numbering

Number all preliminary pages with lower case Roman numerals. Place numbers one inch from bottom of page, three spaces to the right of center. Count but do not number the title page. Number the thesis main body with Arabic numbers in the upper right-hand corner of the page one inch from the top with a double space before the first line of text, and 1 inch from the right-hand side of paper edge. Count but do not number the first page of the main body of the text. Also, do not place a running head on this first page.

Preliminary Pages

Title Page. On the title page, the following information is vertically and horizontally centered: the title of the master's thesis; the full name of the author (this must be the name of the student record); "A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of (Master of Arts, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science, etc.)"; "Northeastern State University"; and the month and year in which the degree sought is to be awarded (contact the Graduate College for the correct month and year). There should be an equal number of spaces between title/author text and the degree text and the date.

Signature/Approval Page

The signature/approval page begins with the thesis title keyed two inches down from top of page. Use inverted pyramid for longer titles and center within margins. Double-space typed lines. Include signature lines for all of your committee members and the Graduate College Dean. Instructions on inserting signatures in the final document are available on the web or see your adviser for assistance.

The abstract is a one-paragraph, double-spaced, self-contained summary of the most important elements of the paper. The abstract begins on a new page.

Acknowledgments (departmental designation)

The format of the acknowledgments page is determined by the discipline style manual. An acknowledgments page is included immediately before the table of contents. Acknowledgments should be made of any grants that supported the research. The thesis/capstone advisor, readers and any others who contributed significantly to the project is typically also noted here.

Table of Contents (departmental designation)

The format of the table of contents is determined by the discipline style manual. The table of contents will list the page numbers of the chapters and specific pages that follow. Double space each entry, beginning with the list of tables, if applicable, chapters of the main body, references, and appendices.

List of Tables and Figures (if applicable)

The format of the list of tables and figures is determined by the discipline style manual. Tables are data presented in tabular form (rows and columns) and should not include any artwork or graphics. Tables should be formatted with clear labels for the rows and columns. Figures are any illustrations that are not in table format. Both tables and figures should be designed to communicate information quickly and clearly. Refer to the style manual for your discipline for documenting tables and figures.

Body of Thesis/Capstone

The format of the body of the thesis is determined by the discipline style manual. The text is to be double spaced with paragraph indentions. Margins are one-inch at top, bottom and right. A one and one-half inch margin on left side of the paper will allow for binding. All main body pages are to be numbered consecutively with Arabic numerals in the upper right-hand corner of each page (except for the first page which is counted but not numbered), one inch from the top and one inch from the right-hand edge of the paper. Double-space between the page number and the top line of text. Do not use the abbreviation p. or any other mark before the page number.

The number of chapters, chapter titles, headings, and subheadings within chapters should be chosen to present the material in a logical and comprehensible manner and formatted according to the discipline style manual. Thesis/capstone content and form should be discussed with your thesis/capstone committee or thesis/capstone advisor/first reader before you complete the thesis/capstone. Formatting will be according to the style manual used by the discipline.

Bibliography/References/Works Cited

The thesis/capstone must contain documentation for all sources cited in the text. This documentation takes the form of the Bibliography, References, or Works Cited page(s), depending on the style manual used in your discipline. Each source that is mentioned in the text of the thesis/capstone must be documented. Formatting will be according to the style manual used by the discipline.

One or more appendix may be included for material which would detract from the flow of the manuscript, but which is relevant to the thesis/capstone. Examples include large data sets, computer programs, and stimulus materials. Formatting will be according to the style manual used by the discipline.

Order of Pages

The following indicates the correct order of pages. Some pages are required for all theses while other pages are optional and should be included as needed.

What Is a Capstone Project in University?

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Importance of Capstone Courses

Characteristics of capstone projects, capstone project vs. capstone course, examples across various majors, capstone project process, benefits for students, challenges and tips, frequently asked questions about capstone in university.

Confused with the concept of a capstone project ? As you approach your senior year, you might be hearing about this culmination project—whether a research endeavor, final paper, application, or portfolio— this academic endeavor aims to showcase the depth of your learning throughout your college years and prepares you for the professional world.

 In this blog post, I will explore what it means, how to prepare for it, and how you can bring this academic achievement to life. I'll guide you through this process, ensuring you have the support and resources you need. With the right guidance and understanding, you can transform this challenging task into an opportunity for growth and real-world application.

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Capstone courses are part of university curricula and are strategically designed to prepare students for a seamless transition from academia to the workforce. They may include research endeavors and theses. However, each has a distinct focus and purpose.

These projects often highlight practical applications and skill enrichment, making them more aligned with professional practice (often done as a group project).

On the other hand, research and theses contribute to the academic body of knowledge, delving deeper into theoretical aspects. Bridging this knowledge gap is essential to empowering students with the understanding needed to make informed decisions about their final-year assessments.

In a broader context, a capstone project is designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application. It provides a platform to reflect on academic journeys, apply acquired knowledge to real-world scenarios, and develop problem-solving skills. By addressing tangible challenges, learners enhance their readiness for the professional world.

The benefits of capstone projects extend beyond academic prowess. They empower students to navigate complex, work-related issues, through practical experience and fostering a deeper understanding on a particular subject.

This synthesis of knowledge and practical application enriches the graduate student's educational experience and typically involves graduates with a skill set essential for success in their higher education.

Although the terms "capstone project" and "capstone course" are often used interchangeably, it's necessary to understand their differences:

A  capstone project   is an independent assignment that encapsulates students' academic learning and demonstrates their proficiency in a specific discipline or field.

The focus is on individual research, problem-solving, or creative endeavors, providing a medium to demonstrate the knowledge acquired as students finish their studies. A capstone project is part of a course (think of it as a final assignment).

A  capstone course   contains a broader coursework and educational experience. It is an entire course (like any other) in which students incorporate and apply their knowledge gained throughout a program. It often requires students to collaborate on projects, engage in discussions, and participate in various activities. It can take longer to complete and varies depending on the institution. 

Students across different degree programs engage in multifaceted capstone experiences at the end of their college careers. These experiences can vary widely, from individual research to collaborative group endeavors, reflecting the essence of their academic achievements.

For example, in fields such as political science, students may delve into a senior thesis, conducting extensive research and showcasing their critical thinking skills.

Alternatively, within literature courses, the last capstone course may involve a comprehensive literature review, illustrating the culmination of knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course of the degree program.

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Many capstone courses extend beyond conventional research papers, requiring you to work on a final project addressing a real-world problem. This collaborative effort and practical method, which can be conducted in small groups, emphasizes teamwork, a significant amount of research, and a strong work ethic (fundamental skills that prepare students for the workplace).

In addition to meeting the degree program and requirements, these capstone experiences often involve a final exhibition, allowing students to present and demonstrate their problem statement to professors, other students, peers, and sometimes even external stakeholders.

A capstone course experience serves as a bridge to graduate degrees or even doctorates, honing research capabilities that are essential for success and develop the necessary skills for potential employers.

As Jolanta Burke and Majella Dempsey highlight in their Practical Guide for Students Book , commencing a capstone project is like constructing a house:

Firstly, you must establish solid foundations, much like a house, ensuring reliability. Then, continue learning and enhancing your skills to build it. Once armed with the necessary skills and information, the next step is to decide on the materials, devise a plan of action, and follow through until the house—your project—is complete and ready for use.

Just as a house requires a robust foundation, a capstone project initiates with meticulous planning. This phase encompasses defining content, goals, and methodologies, ensuring the project demonstrates most capstone courses.

For instance, if your project revolves around human-centered design, identify a problem, such as a shortage of shelters in a city, and conduct research. Then, the person and approach to solving this problem should be determined, perhaps by studying the owner of an existing shelter and identifying gaps in current approaches.

While delving into extensive research, it's crucial for students to hone academic capabilities by studying other courses and examining what has already been done about the specific problem. Seeking input from people, professors, and TAs are invaluable. Once enough material, like a literature review or interviews, is gathered, present it to your professor for feedback before progressing.

Pre-Execution

Jus like choosing construction materials for a house, students must decide on materials and formulate a detailed action plan, meeting degree or course requirements. This phase demands careful consideration of methodologies and strategies, emphasizing material determination—whether it's an app, a history psychology project, or any other course. Craft a structured plan and present it as a proposal before delving deeper into the subject.

The final stage involves executing the plan and completing the project, demonstrating the capstone experience. The research project needs to be prepared for use, showcasing the culmination of efforts.

Presentation

The presentation serves as the grand reveal of the completed project. A well-structured project and a compelling pitch, typically required, is essential to demonstrate its readiness for use.

This approach ensures a seamless transition from planning to execution, essential for success in capstone courses and the culmination of their academic journey.

The preparatory nature of these projects makes students discover what they enjoy the most, what comes easily, and the potential to find areas of improvement. The benefits are crucial for student' personal and professional development, providing a real connection between academic knowledge and real-world application.

Gaining Skills and Experiences

Capstone projects showcase the skills and experiences accumulated throughout a student's educational journey. From research prowess to critical thinking and effective communication, the project culminates in these proficiencies, bringing them to the student's forefront.

Practical Transition to the Next Phase

Capstone projects are vital in preparing students to transition to the professional world or advance in academic pursuits. It's a practical initiation into college career, familiarizing students with the challenges and responsibilities they'll encounter in their future careers or advanced degrees at other schools.

Initiation of Work or Advanced Studies

Working on a capstone project program allows students to navigate the complexities they'll encounter in their chosen field. This experiential learning program equips them with valuable insights and the confidence and adaptability required to transition to the professional world or pursue advanced degrees.

Holistic Development for Future Success

Capstone projects contribute significantly to students' and major programs' holistic development, ensuring they are academically qualified and possess the practical skills demanded by prospective employers for their future endeavors.

Here are some potential burdens and some capstone journey strategies that have helped me throughout my projects during school.

Choosing a Subject:

• Challenge:  Defining the size of your capstone project can be daunting. I recommend balancing ambition with feasibility. For example, if you are trying to help dog shelters, maybe focus on how to prevent owners from abandoning them by educating dog owners. In the case of a more research-based project, look at the literature review of your research focus and build upon what has already been investigated.
• Strategy:  Begin with a clear project scope and revisit the risks regularly. Prioritize key objectives to avoid complicating your project, and focus on a single issue .

Time Management:

• Challenge:  Capstone projects often overlap with other academic commitments. Time management becomes paramount.
• Strategy:  Create a detailed timeline, allocating specific tasks to manageable time frames. Regularly reassess and adjust as needed.

Research Roadblocks:

• Challenge:  Conducting extensive research may lead to information overload or difficulty finding relevant sources.
• Strategy:  Define research questions early. What is the project doing? For whom? In what builds upon? Utilize academic databases and seek guidance from mentors for targeted resource discovery.

Team Dynamics (if applicable):

• Challenge:  Group projects may need help coordinating schedules, differing work styles, or conflicting ideas.
• Strategy:  Establish clear communication channels, set expectations from the beginning, and address conflicts promptly.

What exactly is a capstone project?

A capstone project is a culmination endeavor in your last year of college. This final assignment showcases the knowledge you acquired throughout your college years. It's a bridge between academia and the professional world, demonstrating the complete scope of your learning.

How do capstone courses differ from capstone projects?

A capstone project is an independent culminating assignment reflecting academic individual proficiency. On the other hand, a capstone course is an entire academic course that may involve collaborative projects, discussions, diverse activities, and presentations.

What are the benefits and challenges of capstone projects?

Capstone projects offer transformative experiences, unveiling skills and experiences gained through academic years. The benefits include skill refinement, self-discovery, and a practical transition to the professional realm.

However, challenges such as choosing a subject, time management, research roadblocks, and team dynamics may arise. Strategies like clear project scoping, time management, focused research questions, and effective team communication can help overcome these challenges.

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2024 Mechanical Engineering Capstone Designs

Territorial acknowledgement.

The Mechanical Engineering program acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.  

A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR  

Mike Collins Professor and Chair

Welcome to our eleventh annual Mechanical Engineering Capstone Design Symposium. 

This exciting event provides our final-year student teams an opportunity to showcase their design projects to the general public, to industry partners and sponsors, and to the university community. 

The students have worked hard from conceptualization to finished product and are being judged on a variety of skills. Their end-to-end process included identifying needs, creating solutions and designs to address a variety of challenging problems in diverse areas including: novel commercial devices, automotive improvements, health monitoring equipment, alternative energy production, and assistive devices. They demonstrated their competence in applying the knowledge and skills acquired over the course of their undergraduate academic and co-operative work terms.  

This is also a major component in our continuous improvement plan for the Mechanical Engineering program, a plan for providing the best possible education experience for our students. The enthusiasm with which these teams present their work should be evident, and attests to the effort and teamwork that they have put into their projects over the past eight months. 

We invite you to engage with the students about their designs, admire the presentations and prototypes in the platform, and check out their videos. When you are inspired and excited by the students’ work, feel free to suggest other design project challenges and opportunities to them and their course instructors (contact information at the end of this brochure). To find out more follow us uwaterloo.ca/mechanical-mechatronics-engineering. 

We are proud of our Mechanical students for their achievements this past term. We all recognize and appreciate the effort it took to get here. We are also eternally grateful to our esteemed Mechanical Engineering professors, technical staff and administration, the companies and people who help educate our students in the co-operative program, and to the kindness of our sponsors of this event. Your support is important and valued. Thank you! 

Sincerely, 

Mike Collins  Professor and Chair  Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering 

CAPSTONE DESIGN PARTICIPANTS  

1. AscendTech 2. Sensus 3. Lazy Buddy 4. UWOMBAT 5. FlexiFit 6. A.L.I.S 7. Co-zyBond 8. miniWEC 9. Klean Kicks 10. pAInt 11. E-Wheelz 11. E-Wheelz 13. Montere 14. CrutchTech

1. AscendTech

David Asmussen, Venay Banga, Japmeet Brar, Matthew Murray, George Salib

This initiative was focused on developing a lightweight, electrically assisted device tailored for individuals with mobility challenges. The device uses mechanical arms powered by a motor using an onboard battery to reduce the load on the user taking the cart up a set of stairs. This innovative solution streamlines the transport of daily essentials up and down stairs, combining ergonomic design and transportability with cutting-edge materials to enhance user independence, efficiency, and capabilities. 

Gauthamkrishna Anil, Alikasim Budhwani, Aidan Creaser, Daniel Featherby, Jaskaran Narwal

With the widespread use of smart technology, people with dual sensory loss (DSL or deaf-blindness) risk being left out. Our product aims to improve their accessibility to smart technology by creating an ultra-portable glove that allows users to seamlessly receive information from their smart devices. This innovative smart glove employs electro-tactile haptics to induce Braille sensations through electrical stimulations on the user's fingers, enabling those with DSL to access books, text messages, and any other media passively and portably, literally at their fingertips!

3. Lazy Buddy

Jonathan Cao, Dae Hyeon Lee, Ziyan Li, Yingjie Zhao

Our project introduces an innovative solution to a common winter hassle in Canada: snow removal. Our goal is to develop a remote-controlled snow blower, revolutionizing how snow is cleared. With the ease of a controller and Bluetooth technology, users can effortlessly direct both the movement and chute of the blower from the comfort of their homes. This leads to a convenient, no-fuss method to tackle the daunting task of shoveling snow.

Robert Bahensky, Morgan Judiesch, Anoush Rasouli, Chris Sankey, Yusuf Shariff

Polymetallic nodules are seafloor-based rocks containing metals essential for society's renewable energy needs. The mining of these nodules represents a multi-trillion dollar opportunity, but existing harvesting technologies are energy-intensive and disruptive to seabed ecosystems.

UWOMBAT (UnderWater Ocean Mining Buoyancy And Trim), together with Impossible Metals, has designed a ballast-driven buoyancy/trim engine for an autonomous underwater mining vehicle. The new system controls the vehicle's buoyancy and trim by selectively replacing processed nodules back to the seafloor, thereby reducing energy costs and facilitating ocean ecosystem repair.

5. FlexiFit

Fahad Abdullah, Abdel Hassouneh, Ujjay Jayashankar, Jeffrey Der Min Wan

Traditional gym weight stacks pose challenges in transportation and cost. FlexiFit aims to address these issues and make home gym equipment more accessible. Using an innovative constant force spring array and smart controls, FlexiFit significantly reduces the weight of home gym equipment without compromising on workout quality.

Ali Chaudhry

Miranda Zhang

Current shielding methodologies for pipe welding involve purging and filling entire pipes with shielding gas before welding. This process is time-consuming, expensive, and resource intensive. Our solution, A.L.I.S (Automated Interior Localized Shielding) is a robot that drives into a pipe and shields welds using a rotating arm that follows the weld as it is performed—dispensing argon gas from the interior of the pipe. The robot also allows for inspection of weld quality via a camera and can take images and videos as necessary. 

7. Co-zyBond

Co-sleeping is defined as when an infant and parent/guardian share the same bed. Although co-sleeping has some benefits, there are also risks if not practiced properly.  This is where our product, Co-zyBond, comes into play. It is a smart mattress equipped with sensor technology in order to mitigate risks associated with co-sleeping, such as suffocation. With Co-zyBond, parents will be able to safely co-sleep with their child without the anxieties surrounding co-sleeping.

Muhammad Abdullah, Caitlin Ho, Alexander Rejep, Nathan Shen, Ronald Trang

Wave energy converters (WECs) convert the kinetic energy of ocean waves into electrical energy. Large WECs are currently deployed around the world to power electrical grids. miniWEC is a miniaturized wave energy converter designed to provide renewable electrical energy for portable marine devices, such as research buoys equipped with sensors for data collection. miniWEC enables long-term deployment of these devices in areas with turbulent waves and rough weather conditions.

9. Klean Kicks

May Farhad, Trinity Li, Christopher Nguyen, Tirth Shah, Jacob Swan

Klean Kicks is the hassle-free way to keep your shoes fresh. Just slip them into the device when you get home, and within 30 minutes, you'll have a clean pair of shoes. Klean Kicks not only removes dirt and grime but also employs UV-C technology to sanitize, eliminating odor-causing bacteria. Designed for your everyday sneakers and running shoes, Klean Kicks is meant to seamlessly fit into your routine.

Ethan Bando, Yali Chen, Ashley Cho, Mu Ha, Alexandre Roman

The autonomous wall painting robot is an innovation designed to automate the process of painting walls in both residential and small-scale commercial settings. Equipped with advanced sensors, the robot can detect wall boundaries and obstacles precisely. It utilizes a customized painting system, capable of applying an even coating quickly and efficiently, making smart decisions to ensure a quality paint job in a fraction of the time. Its compact design allows easy transportation and operation, making it a reliable and simple solution. 

11. E-Wheelz

Yousef Aghili, Amanuel Dawit, Marcus Lela, Aram Pournabi, Mohammad-Ali Shah

Using a manual wheelchair for prolonged periods of time and long distances is exhausting, especially for the elderly. We have designed an attachment which motorizes manual wheelchairs which can be easily attached and detached to any type of manual wheelchair.

Coleton Myers

Scott Sipkens

13. Montere

Montere is a modular espresso machine with easily swappable internal components, significantly decreasing the cost of upgrading or repairing home espresso devices, as well as reducing the amount of e-waste produced. This creates an affordable entry point into the world of home espresso which can grow alongside a customer's changing needs over time rather than being periodically replaced for increasingly larger sums of money, as exists in the current market.

14. CrutchTech

Yannick Bouma, Taekhan Choi, Adam Giust, Vincent Le

The CrutchTech project aims to revolutionize crutch design by creating a hands-free and comfortable alternative to existing options. Our crutch features a knee linkage mechanism mimicking the Gait Cycle, ensuring a natural walking motion for enhanced comfort while having the injured leg supported. The crutch attaches to the user's thigh to permit a hands-free experience with the crutch compared to conventional solutions.

15. PureFlow Ceramics

Casey Baleshta, Brian Gerson, Cameron Hudspith, Matthew Lee

Access to clean drinking water is an on-going issue in thousands of communities across Canada. Ceramic water filters are a proven effective solution for Canadian water systems, however they require frequent and labor-intensive cleaning which hinders widespread usability. Our innovation introduces a fully automated, self-cleaning ceramic water filtration system. By removing the need for regular maintenance, this system can extend its reach to a broader population, contributing to the effort to provide a greater number of Canadians with access to clean drinking water.  

16. Coil-wRaptor

Nicholas Gisone, Jessica Hall, Sean Kodric, Michael Orszula, Saad Rizwan

Creating an automated winding system for Waterloop's hyperloop project, coil-wRaptor ensures precise winding on single or multiple cores. Requiring minimal user input, it adapts to variable core sizes in three dimensions and handles diverse wire gauges. With a primary focus on precision, it provides a valuable tool for advancing research and development in the broader field of linear induction motors.

17. The Under Cutter

Samee Basit, Burhanuddin Ezzy, Jingwei He, Cameron Homer, Praven Vikneswararaja

The Under Cutter is a waterproof, electric angle grinder designed for a variety of uses in underwater environments. With an easily swapped blade, variable speed control, and a custom designed tool housing, it seeks to be a compact, easy to use tool for underwater abrasive cutting. Using a mix of off the shelf and custom-designed but easily manufactured components, this project seeks to create a standardized device for industries where existing solutions tend to be bulky, customized, and expensive.

Jonathan Chiem

Allen Huang

18. Turbulent Kombucha Brewing 

In current industrial kombucha brewing methods, a common issue arises with the presence of residual, unfermented sugar. We're trying to improve the kombucha brewing process by introducing mixing using vortex rings.

19. Sixth Sense

Kayne Chu, Ibrahim El Ghazal, Harrison Lanfrank, Avian Leung, Jinwoo Suk

The group has developed a system to proactively detect potential upper body collision hazards and deliver haptic feedback to mitigate collisions. This system solves the need that exists for independent navigation for the visually impaired while reducing the occurrence of head-level accidents. Essentially, a sixth sense for the visually impaired.

20. Tetrix Sorter

Jensine Kerr Aure, Kevin Chu, Salman Rasheed, Joshua Selvanayagam

Tetrix Kits are used by the MME department at the University of Waterloo to facilitate hands-on design experience in first year courses. At the end of each term, co-op students and teaching assistants in the department manually count, sort, and reorganize approximately 70 Tetrix kits each consisting of over 290 parts. This project aims to provide an automated solution to count, sort and reorganize Tetrix kits.

21. yesUcan

Elijah Birley, Bethany Johnsen, Cael Johnston, Tina Nguyen

yesUcan is a multi-tool for opening sealed containers. Whether that be a jar, can, or bottle, yesUcan assists the user in the process of opening by reducing the input force via gear relations, making it ideal for people who struggle to overcome the strength required to open these standard sealed containers. Being compact with no electrical components makes it convenient to store in your kitchen, and take it wherever you need it. Think you can't? yesUcan!

22. Packer-Pro

Kwaku Richter, Justin Siriska, Tyson Wagler

The Packer-Pro seed handling system brings the herb and seed industry an automated solution to the tedious task of manually measuring and packaging seeds for retail sale. Utilizing both electronic and pneumatic control, the Packer-Pro system accurately processes bulk seeds into sealed packets in a fraction of the time required to do so manually.

23. Automated Sensor Calibration

Jude Bennett, Moustafa Elsharawi, Peter Su, Vincent Tang, Chris Wang

Teledyne FLIR has been performing manual calibration of a sensor package for a drone development project requiring human input. Our custom End-Effector seamlessly mounts the sensor package to a Kinova Gen 3 arm. The thermal calibration target enables visual and thermal inputs to calibrate the sensor package. Accompanying is the controls and automation software which map an optimized trajectory and 1-click calibration resulting in a 0.08 reprojection error.

24. Chariot Mobility

Dominic Gordon, Jared Sneek, Filip Tomic, Renzo Villanoy, Joshua Wakeford

The Chariot Mobility device is a one-of-a-kind custom mobility aid designed specifically for a client suffering from a spinal condition (Arnold Chiari Malformation) to assist with able-body walking tasks. Its lightweight standing frame and mechanical propulsion system were made to accommodate the client's physical limitations while also being safe and easy to use. The Chariot aims to address the lack of custom solutions for those suffering from unique mobility issues. 

25. Self-Extending Stilts 

Joseph Arciero, Matthew Carullo, Chris Drapeau, Parmis Kahvaie-zad

Have you ever wanted to instantly grow up to 3 feet? Perform for an audience and leave them in complete shock? Self-extending stilts is an exciting project that can be incorporated into any entrainment performance from circuses, festivals, tradeshows or simply to impress your friends. 

Existing stilts lack the capability for users to adjust their height during use. This left an exciting possibility for a novel stilt walking act that could allow the performer to start at ground level and gradually elevate to obscure heights.  

26. SunBrew Solar Kettle

Marc Arellano, Ishan Patel, Eric Zhang

The SunBrew Solar Kettle is a portable, lightweight, & sustainable solution to obtain boiling water when backpacking outdoors in the summer. It uses special parabolic mirrors to focus incoming solar radiation onto a specialized glass tube that houses up to 450 ml of liquid. From room temperature, you can enjoy boiling water for hot beverages or rehydrating food within two hours. 

Daniel Xiong

Yuan Hua Xu

Heyang Zhao

27. Fluid Mechanics Research Shaker

The purpose of this project is to conduct fluid mechanics research on sloshing dynamics in conical containers subjected to linear, oscillatory motion. Specifically, the flows on the free surface are of interest, and the aim a system to shake a conical container is necessary in order to capture and study the flow using cameras.

28. UWAFT LiftOff 

Nimrat Gill, Lauren Kissoon, Aimen Shaikh, Samer Tannous

The University of Waterloo Alternative Fuels Team (UWAFT) seeks to improve the accessibility of their current competition vehicle, a 2023 Cadillac LYRIQ.  Current solutions for accessible vehicles only exist for larger vehicles such as trucks/vans. UWAFT LiftOff aims to create a system that alleviates the difficulty of transferring into small vehicles to improve their accessibility for low-mobility individuals. 

29. Thin Sheet Material Transfer Optimization

Griffin Batt, Jason Hardy, Nicholas Hewko, Karan Tayl

Addressing a major bottle neck in the electric vehicle industry for an industry sponsor by designing a new material storage and transfer solution for large thin metal sheets as well as optimizing an end effector design for automated handling. This solution targets reduction of downtime and scrap costs by lowering the amount of stored part deflection. It also improves transportation efficiency by utilizing more dense part storage.

30. Goal Guard Guru

Martin Chang, Justin Li, Kevin Meng, Jil Patel, Martin Woo

Foosball is a beloved table-top soccer game requiring at least two people to play. The Goal Guard Guru is the solution that provides foosball professionals, enthusiasts, and newbies alike with the option to play by themselves while still maintaining popular aspects of the game. This new and improved foosball table is specifically designed for single-player fun for hours on end! Have no fear, the Guru is here! 

31. Foreal VR Glove

Selina Huang, Jintae Kim, Rehnuma Tasneem, Michael Wang

With VR and XR technology reaching new heights, wouldn't it be even cooler if you could feel the virtual objects you're seeing? Most solutions are too expensive or bulky and simply inaccessible to most people. What if there was a device you could actually try out? A device compact and simple enough to be practical? Foreal VR Glove aims to be a lightweight, affordable and accessible solution that will allow users to feel like they are grabbing a virtual object in a virtual environment.   

32. FeelScript

James Bates, Darsh Garg, Akshay Gaur, Gordon Liang, Garima Malik

Introducing "FeelScript" - revolutionizing accessibility for the visually impaired! Snap a pic of any text with your phone, and watch as our innovative technology transforms it into braille on the back of your device. Feel the words come to life with our tactile interface, providing an empowering reading experience. Seamlessly switch between words as the modules reset, opening a new world of independence and inclusivity. Feel the power of literacy at your fingertips with FeelScript - making language accessible, one touch at a time.

33. HEXA-Force

Evan Bernat, Jacob Chartrand, Jared Elliott, Christopher Gosk, Malcolm Park

HEXA-Force is a novel six-axis mechanical loading platform aiming to revolutionize 3D imaging of biomaterials. The platform allows for precise application of large biomechanical loads in multiple simultaneous directions, allowing more accurate material characterization. Designed to mimic complex physiological loading conditions, HEXA-Force aims to advance the understanding of biomaterial behavior and bone-implant mechanics, making it a valuable tool in the field of orthopedic biomechanics and medical imaging research.

Faculty Advisors: Stewart McLachlin, Nikolas Knowles

34. Vibratory Bowl Feeder Designer

Mel Chen, Nickolas Hall, Matthew Jen, Daniel Reed, Jason Sutherland

The project focuses on enhancing efficiency and reducing development costs in industrial automation for Vibratory Bowl Feeders. A streamlined design process utilizing simulations is employed, resulting in an efficient, cost-effective prototype with a simplified interface. The initiative aims to minimize design time and maximize operational efficiency in manufacturing environments.

35. AutoSwap

Jacob Holt, Katherine Mader, Alexandra Shatkin

AutoSwap is an innovative solution addressing the lack of automatic tool changers in collaborative robots, specifically for the Sawyer Cobot. Collaborative robots, designed to work alongside humans in manufacturing, often face increased cycle times and costs due to manual tool changes. AutoSwap addresses this by enabling automatic tool changes, merging the collaborative benefits of these robots with enhanced manufacturing efficiency. This technology promises to streamline operations where collaborative robots are employed, making them more cost-effective.

Faculty Advisor: Yue Hu

36. Refrigeration Cycle Demonstration Unit

Mattew Krmpotic, Jared Ott, Andy Tarkoshev, Klaudio Uruci

An in-class demonstration unit designed to show significant topics covered in Thermodynamics I & II that are not so easily seen in real life: refrigeration cycle, compressor work and efficiency, phase change in a valve (demonstrated through Schlieren imaging), latent heat addition/removal, and the interaction of a thermodynamic cycle with its environment. Usable in class settings, with minimal setup and secondary equipment required. 

37. Carbon Infinity Tech

David Acosta Ruiz, Jeemin Hong, Luca Ibraim, Ananthu Shibu Nair

Our Carbon Infinity Tech combines existing Direct Air Capture (DAC) of CO2 with mechanical principles to tackle the current climate crisis. This sustainable device, attached to a Light Rail Transit (LRT) vehicle, cleans the air by using the train's motion without any external power. It comprises an aerodynamic enclosure that houses adsorption cylinder beds containing zeolite. The increased air flow rate through the chamber results in an enhanced CO2 capture.

Austin Huang, Anna Wei, Henry Wu, Michael Zhang

Presso is a coffee machine that lets you extract the perfect espresso shot, every time. 

39. Kelp Weight Tracker

Matthew Ong, Zainab Tariq

An in-situ kelp weight measurement device for coastal kelp farmers in maritime regions to replace labourious and time consuming methods. This project focuses on creating a kelp farm buoy that utilizes waves to power on-board systems that measure the water level. This would then be correlated to the kelp weight. This device enables measuring the amount of absorbed carbon in kelp farms so that it expands our carbon sinks, in addition to land ones, against our fight for climate change. 

40. ErgoInject

Aidan MacDougall, Ethan Newell, Conrad Stone, Matthew Wood, Voytec Zmudzki

ErgoInject is an advanced injection device designed to address the challenges of repetitive strain injuries caused by high force requirement needles. Featuring an ergonomic grip, button-controlled injections, and a lightweight, cord-free build, ErgoInject offers a practical solution to medical needs while prioritizing precision and comfort.

41. Sous-Bot

Michael Fernandes, Andrew Moniz, Trystan-James Semmens, Mingxuan Xu, Joseph Younger

In a time where technology has progressed to create autonomy in daily tasks, it seems that the area of food preparation is yet to be pursued. Our design, the Sous-Bot, creates a more autonomous food preparation experience for those without the time or ability to prepare meals. The Sous-Bot requires the user to simply place their fruit, vegetables, or meats onto the cutting platform, and within minutes, the ingredients are cut into a specific style, as requested by the user.

42. Cookie Dough Dynamo

Afam Akaraiwe, Mustafa Al-Rawi, Jakub Borsuk, Paul Gobui, Nijaan Navaranjan

Cookie Dough Dynamo is partnering with The Crumby Cookie Dough Company to streamline their cookie dough production process by replacing their manual scooping and packaging operation with an autonomous solution. This project aims to redesign the process to increase the production output whilst minimizing operational waste produced.   

THANK YOU  

PROFESSIONAL, TECHNICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT 

Charles Day  Maggie Morin  Steve Lambert  HJ Kwon  Jim Baleshta  Peter Teertstra  Kamyar Ghavam  Eugene Li  Abdullah Barakat  Brian Shilingford  Richard Yan  Marisa Buettel  Kyla Campbell  Grace Hu 

FUTURE CAPSTONE DESIGN PROJECTS  

For more information about sponsorship opportunities, these Mechanical Engineering design projects or to inquire about joining us in future design projects, please contact:

Eugene Li, P.Eng Design Engineer/ ETS Manager 519-888-4567 x31149 [email protected] ​​​​​​​

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STEM Undergraduate Capstone & Symposium Event

The STEM Undergraduate Capstone & Symposium event is a vibrant culmination of the STEM undergraduate journey at UW Bothell. This quarterly event celebrates the hard work and creativity of our students across various STEM disciplines.

Students can present their projects in several different ways:

• Oral Presentations: Detailed discussions led by students, shedding light on their methodologies, results, and implications.
• Poster Sessions: Visual displays summarizing students’ research and project findings, where they talk to event attendees in one-and-one conversation.
• Project Demonstrations: Some programs hold live showcases where students bring their projects to life through models, software demos, or physical prototypes.

Event schedule

The event is always held on Friday of finals week – the last day of the quarter. Visit our Maps & Directions and Accessibility pages for information on how to get to and around campus.

Previous event pages

• Autumn 2023
• Summer 2023
• Spring 2023
• Winter 2023

Contact capstone coordinator Janet McDaniel for questions about the event and to sign up for your presentation: [email protected]

Types of project

Projects are often the result of undergraduate research, portfolios, capstone courses, internships, or work with community partners outside the university. Visit the links below for specific details about what the projects are like or how to sign up:

• Applied Computing Capstone: CSS 496
• Investigative Biology: BBIO 495
• Biology Independent Study / Research: BBIO 498 / 499
• Chemistry Independent Study / Research: BCHEM 498 / 499
• Computer Engineering Capstone: BENGR 494, BCE 495, BCE 496
• CSSE Capstone: CSS 497
• Electrical Engineering Capstone: BENGR 494, BEE 495, BEE 496
• Mathematics Independent Study / Research: STMATH 498 / 499
• Mechanical Engineering Capstone: BENGR 494, BME 495, BME 496
• Senior Project: BPHYS 433
• Physics Independent Study / Research: BPHYS 498 / 499

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Capstone team works to improve Air Force midflight refuelers’ comfort

A team of senior students at Florida Polytechnic University is working to make it easier and more comfortable for a military KC-135 aircraft’s boom pod operator to refuel planes midflight.

The team is made up of four mechanical engineering majors and one engineering physics major, Sebastian Sage.

“The KC-135 is one of three models of aerial refueling tankers in service, and it’s the oldest, being built back in the 1950s,” said Corey Kado, a member of the team working on the capstone project sponsored by MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. “In the 1950s, they didn’t really care about ergonomics, and it caused a lot of issues for the people who did that job.”

The KC-135 includes a boom pod, which is a small, horizontal area where the operator responsible for transferring the fuel from one aircraft to another sits. Its existing design challenges include an awkward hump that causes discomfort around the stomach area, inadequate back arch support, and subpar chin rests resembling shin guards, team member Douglas Poole said.

“The current design is not really designed for the human body,” Poole said. “It makes you sit in an uncomfortable position where the back is not arched properly, and the chin rest isn’t the best.”

Sage added that the seat’s design, which requires the operator to lie flat on their stomach, places much of the person’s weight on their shins, rather than on a more natural place like their knees.

The team's approach involves modifying existing features like adding armrests, footrests, and enhancing cushioning while optimizing ergonomics through new chair designs. Complicating matters is the fact that the operator must look through a small window utilizing mirrors to adequately see the aircraft and properly conduct the refueling.

“They have to arch their back on their stomach just to see out the window,” Sage said.

After spending the fall semester researching ergonomics, the team has spent the spring building and refining a workable prototype. At the core of the project is something that each of the students focused on time and again throughout their courses at Florida Poly: the engineering process.

“What we learned in almost every class is the engineering design process and our main takeaway from this is experiencing the trials and tribulations of that process,” team member Dustin Fandetti said.

But they also are gaining an extra career boost.

“I want to work in aerospace, so working on this aerospace-related project will help me build connections or at least boost my credibility in the industry,” he said.

Contact: Lydia Guzmán Director of Communications 863-874-8557 (office) 863-327-9762 (cell) [email protected]

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Capstone Project Illuminates Learning for the Boys and Girls Club

March 15, 2024 By Maddi Busby

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A team of senior capstone design students from the J. Mike Walker ’66 Department of Mechanical Engineering has designed and built a new interactive kinematics display called “The ElectroCycle” for the Boys and Girls Club of Brazos Valley. Tailored for children aged 8-12, this exhibit demonstrates the conversion process between human and electrical energy.

The exhibit features a bike connected to a generator using a belt; as the user pedals the bike, the generator produces electricity to charge items such as lights and batteries. The exhibit also shows the different efforts required to power LED bulbs versus Halogen incandescent bulbs, helping users better understand the efficiency of LED lights.

The exhibit encourages children to be curious about everyday concepts like the functioning of light bulbs. Children may start investigating other familiar items in their daily lives to better understand how they work.

“The most impactful part of the project has been the opportunity to utilize the curricular knowledge we have accumulated over the years of our undergraduate studies towards a project that has such a great impact on the local community,” said Pepito Thelly, a student on the team.  “The exhibit gives kids an early introduction into physics and engineering concepts.”

The most impactful part of the project has been the opportunity to utilize the curricular knowledge we have accumulated over the years of our undergraduate studies towards a project that has such a great impact on the local community.

Alongside Thelly, the team included Riley Pruett, Luis Rodriguez, Clayton Maywald, Caleb Johnson, and Anthony Le. They were advised by Dr. Ravi Thyagarajan, who provided mentorship and technical guidance.

Pruett stated that the team’s most significant challenge was tackling an electrical design since none of them had extensive experience in electrical work. However, they overcame this obstacle by learning along the way, consulting professors and industry experts, and testing the project at various stages.

The team also produced age-appropriate educational videos for Boys and Girls Club members that explain engineering concepts related to the project. They also visited the Boys and Girls Club to teach children about the fundamental principles related to the exhibit. 

“I would say that this point is where this project shifted from a traditional project on paper to a real-life experience,” Thelly said. “The creativity that the kids at the club showcased through an activity we did with them was extremely motivating to us both in terms of perfecting the product, but also in remembering why we wanted to become engineers in the first place.”

The senior design capstone program enabled the team to apply their academic knowledge to a project benefiting the local community.

“We feel that this project encapsulates what makes Texas A&M Engineering fruitful in developing competent leaders. Working with a non-profit truly gave us a new lens through which we can see the uses of our engineering skills,” said the team.

The team extends its appreciation to the sponsors at the Boys and Girls Club of Brazos Valley for their invaluable support and collaboration in making the project a success. 

"We are grateful for Texas A&M's partnership! The innovative ElectroCycle is such a fun and creative way to attract kids to science,” said Fatima Burgueno, BGCBV director of programs and Latino outreach. “Connecting that the transfer of their physical energy to making light bulbs turn on and Xbox controller batteries recharge truly brings STEM alive for our Boys & Girls Club members. One of our favorite parts of this collaboration is that with Aggie college students engaging in this way, our youth can see a future path for themselves in post-high school education."

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"Alternative" Project Delivery Isn't So Alternative Anymore

AGC Smartbrief recently wrote a story addressing project delivery methods that featured the ConsensusDocs’ design-build and construction management at-risk standard contracts with the following:

On the contractor side, ConsensusDocs’ package of traditional design-build standard contracts documents in its  400 series  is compatible with progressive design-build and includes an option to use a two-phased approach, says Brian Perlberg, senior counsel for construction law and contracts at AGC and executive director and senior counsel for ConsensusDocs. The initial phase of the project, governed by  ConsensusDocs 400 , an Owner/Design-Build Preliminary Agreement, quickly brings a design-builder on board without locking in a price. Moving to the second phase, options include the  ConsensusDocs 410 Design-Build Agreement (Cost of Work with a GMP)  or  ConsensusDocs 415 Design-Build Agreement (Lump Sum)   agreements. The 410 document delays setting a guaranteed maximum price, while the 415 requires detailed design for a fixed price. Using only the 410 without the 400 is a single-phased approach, incompatible with progressive design-build. 

For CMAR,  the 500 series  can be helpful. A ConsensusDocs 500 agreement between the owner and the construction manager stipulates the construction manager offers preconstruction services related to scheduling, budget and design. It can also issue subcontracts for fully designed portions of the project before the entire design is done. The series also includes the industry-first  ConsensusDocs 541  Design Assist Addendum, which covers some modern considerations in projects, including  constructability , value engineering and life cycle analysis. It also pairs nicely with lean construction tools.

In both design-build and CMAR, Perlberg notes that a shared savings clause can provide an incentive for the contractor to complete the project under the guaranteed maximum price. If actual costs come in under the GMP, the savings are shared between the owner and construction manager based on an agreed-upon formula. This clause incentivizes collaboration and cost control efforts since the construction manager shares in any savings achieved. It helps align the owner and construction manager’s interests in keeping costs low. ConsensusDocs guidelines include an optional shared savings clause that parties can incorporate into these agreements.

That said, while ConsensusDocs can accommodate collaborative delivery, AGC itself is “project delivery neutral,” and Perlberg says “progressive design build is not the panacea that is going to fix everything.” There are still some real risks involved, and WCDA acknowledges on its website that “no single delivery method is suitable for every project.” In the grand scheme of construction, progressive design-build is still relatively new, so there is some uncertainty around how often the “off-ramps,” or exit clauses in contracts, are utilized, says Perlberg. He says the threat of an owner taking a project to the off-ramp could potentially be used to terminate a design-builder prematurely in order to low bid out the remaining work and acquire their intellectual property, even though that may not actually save the owner money in the long run. However, experience with off-ramps are used will inform how these risks should be contractually addressed up front as well as addressed through project management.

The rest of the story can be found here:  https://www.smartbrief.com/original/alternative-project-delivery-isnt-so-alternative-anymore .