This Guest paper was first submitted for publication in September. It is copyright to the authors © 2020.
Published here December 2020

Editor's Note | Introduction | Why Include Project Management in K12? 
Adopting a Project Management Program | Introducing the Use of Computers
Introducing Time Management | The Bottom Line

Introducing the Use of Computers

One of the ways of ensuring that a project is successful is by introducing the use of computers. Learners at K12 level have the ability to use computers to search results or learn any life skills. Technology in education should be a priority because of the gadgets' speed and efficiency, which is important for the successful completion of a project.

Indeed, these days the use of computers is essential. This is not a problem for most kids because they are already familiar with hand-held devices. So software can help immeasurably in the development of project management skills and the role of software in education. Some software examples include grammar and plagiarism checkers, study applications and digital libraries. These can be used to polish the art of communication and reporting.

Hence, it is necessary to provide computers that are suitable for children and are affordable, which means that children can access them in school and at home. Children should be taken through project management in schools and later be required to continue with project tasks at home through practical application. For instance, students can learn how to use available resources to make toys that they could sell later.

Embracing teamwork and leadership

Figure 3: Teamwork — Classmates working together
Figure 3: Teamwork — Classmates working together[1]

Almost all projects involve teamwork, whereby every team member has a specific role to play. This may start by introducing small tasks such as building blocks as a group, where every child's role is specifically defined. Children should be taught at a young age how to take turns, share, showcase their talents and fill gaps. Children should be encouraged to solve problems or read stories together to prepare them for further challenging tasks at a later stage.

Managing a project requires proper coordination of activities by the team leader and communicating results. K12 teachers should ensure that children working in groups first identify a team leader to play the role of a project manager and for the project's team members to play the role of facilitators.

Adopting effective communication skills

Effective and efficient communication is probably the one area in professional project management that is least well promoted, yet the source of many serious catastrophes. Orders do not get delivered, or if they are, are not correctly understood simply because the instructions are not clear. So English teachers should be delighted that some serious attention is being given to their subject area. Better still, they should be brought in to deliver suitably structured project management course material.

Project management also requires that communication channels be clearly defined. To ensure continuity, children at K12 level should be taught how to report their findings as a project progresses. They need to understand that social media channels like WhatsApp and Snapchat can play a role in timely communication on matters relating to the project. Using Google is an ideal way of conducting information searches.

Adopting a Project Management Program  Adopting a Project Management Program

1. Courtesy www.freepik.com/free-photo/classmates-working-together_863223.htm
 
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