Policy
Maintaining a logbook is an essential part of the inventing process. Therefore, a logbook will be a required part of the judging process.
The logbook is a written record of the process of creating the invention. This should be written as the inventing is going on and not compiled after process is complete.
The logbook should address each of the Stages of Invention.
• Identifying the Problem
• Understanding the Goal
• Identifying a Solution
• Designing a Solution
• Building a Device
• Testing & Evaluating the Device
• Communicating the Results
The logbook can contain more information and sections, but as a minimum it should contain sections for each of the Stages of Invention.
The logbook does NOT have to be in any particular style or format. The information can be entered into a premade template or a blank notebook that is filled in during the invention process.
Attached is a copy of the Invention Convention Worldwide logbook template, which can be used as a model. The purpose of the template is to guide the student through the steps in each of the Stages of Invention.
There are some extra sections in this template, in addition to the Stages of Invention. These extra sections can be deleted, if desired.
The logbook is a living document that reflects the actual work of the inventor as it occurs. It does NOT have to be perfectly written, drawn and spelled. Sloppiness and errors should be avoided, but they are not fatal flaws.
The inventing process takes time, thought and effort, and the concept of completing an invention logbook as they go through the process may be new and somewhat difficult for some students. Therefore, students should be given the logbook template and its purpose explained when the invention program is first introduced.
Invention Logbook Judging Criteria (Total: out of 10 points)
| WHO: | Serving public, private and home-schooled students in grades 5-12 from Clinton, Essex, Franklin and St. Lawrence counties in New York State. Note: Younger students can qualify using our math placement tool. |
Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Criteria | Description | Points |
| Invention Process | The logbook must document student initiative and the Invention Process. Information should begin with brainstorming and continue through to completion of the invention (include modifications/improvements/all changes from beginning to end). Logbook documents how the idea originated; evidence that the student is the main contributor to the project (students should do all work appropriate for their grade level; adult help is encouraged regarding any safety issues, such as using power tools). |
0–4 |
| Research & Documentation | The logbook documents research related to the general topic as well as the existence of similar inventions (which is Terra supports originality). Lists all items used, including borrowed and repurposed. Documents total expenses including all materials purchased, donated, or reused. Documents help from adults. |
0–4 |
| Analysis | The logbook provides analysis of the invention's benefits/consequences: environmental, societal, market potential. It also gives pros/cons of design process. | 0–2 |