Should judges only interview teams that have submitted an Engineering Notebook?

Interviewing all teams, regardless of whether they have submitted an Engineering Notebook, is essential for promoting fairness and inclusivity in the judging process. This practice ensures that all participants have the opportunity to showcase their efforts and achievements during the competition. By interviewing every team, judges can gather valuable insights into the projects and experiences of each team, which may not be fully captured in the Engineering Notebook alone. Additionally, some teams may have faced challenges that prevented them from completing their notebooks, and interviewing them allows judges to understand their journey and provide a holistic evaluation of their work. This approach fosters a more equitable competition environment and can enhance the learning experience for all participants.