20% Project

So cool.  For Edl 630 we were asked to choose a topic, something we are passionate about wanting to learn, and go learn about it.  




My initial brainstorm of ideas looked like this:
Learn to play piano (Specifically Against The Wind - Bob Seger)

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                  Learn how to knit (a scarf)

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                Learn to surf

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                       Learn guitar (not sure which song)


                                          hmmmmm.......
If I choose guitar, piano, or knitting I know I can find plenty of information and support online, and I have a guitar, a piano, and the knitting needles and yarn that I need to learn.  I have had these three things on my dream list of things to learn for a long time.  

The project that keeps luring me, though, is learning to surf- mostly because it involves overcoming a fear I have - of waves and of not always being in control out in the ocean.  Like the other project ideas on my list, learning to surf is something I have always wanted to do.  I have always admired the grace and ease in the relationship that surfers have with the ocean. For as long as I can remember I have wanted to feel that comfortable out in the sea.  I am very drawn to it.  Choosing this as my project isn't quite as practical as the other options, because in order to engage in the physical practice of surfing I have to leave my home and go do it.  But if I commit to it, then I will do it.  That's just the way it will go down.  I am thinking I can find technique videos online, research some surfing blogs, peruse resources like Surfline, and use my son's GoPro to capture footage of my surfing (or attempted surfing) that I can watch and analyze.  So I'm going to flesh out the details of the surfing project, and then I'll be looking for honest feedback from House Pelagic on whether this is really a good idea, or if one of the other options would make a better project.
Learning To Surf: 10 Authentic Questions:
1. What does it feel like to stand on a surfboard and ride a wave in?
2.  What is the best type of board for a beginning surfer?
3.  What other gear or equipment will I need?
4.  What do I need to know how to do before I get into the water with my board?
5.  How does a surfer know whether the surf is "good" or not?
6.  What is the optimal wave height for me to surf?
7.  What are the various weather occurrences that affect swell?
8.  Will I be able to overcome my fear of waves?
9.  What do I need to learn about the unspoken rules in surf culture so that I don't offend anyone or make anyone angry out in the water?
10.  Are there different techniques for learning to surf?
11.  Where are the best surf spots in North County for beginning surfers?
12.  How many waves does the average surfer catch in an average length surf session?
What Will Success Look Like?
I will consider myself successful if I can catch a wave and ride it all the way in- not just once, but multiple times in succession within a single surf session

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