Sarah Kate Chatel- Blog Post 2

1. After reflecting on the "main course" Project Based Learning and the PBL Essential elements, I notice that both have very similar approaches to identifying the key aspects of a PBL. Both of these focus on problem solving, rigor, inquiry, strong questions, authenticity, student voice and choice, reflection, revision and making the final outcome public, so that it has an impact. I see these as being key approaches to laying the foundation for a 21st century learner.

2. For me a PBL is all about the journey not so much about the initial instruction or end product. I believe that in order for PBL to be the "main course" students have to be patient, communicate and be willing to make mistakes.  I will make it a point to guide student learning through a long term project, not just an end of unit project. I feel lead to make my classroom an environment where PBL is possible through constant support and guidance.

3. I believe that in order for anything to be successful within a school you must have support from the top. Administrators play a key roll in supporting every aspect of the day to day. I know that at Fairforest we have Administration on a mission to support PBL experiences for our students. I also believe that furthering my understanding and expertise by attending this class as well as professional development is beneficial to further grow myself as an educator. I am also excited at the opportunity to work with teachers through the coteach model and support one another through PBL experiences.

4. I would love to share the knowledge I have acquired so far with my colleagues and school leadership. I would share with them how thrilled I am to see students applying real world problems into the classroom where they discover the information they need to know, and dig deeper into the content then when I would just present the information, as well as grow in their interpersonal skills and confidence!