1)
The main course project correlates directly to
the PBL Essential Elements. They both focus on specific content, critical
thinking, problem solving, inquiry, challenging problems or questions, allows
for student voice and choice, incorporates revision and reflection, and
includes a public audience. As I read the elements of the main course, I
realized they were basically the same as the PBL Essential Elements. PBL and
the main course project both strive to create skilled 21st century
employees and citizens. They both teach time management and collaboration.
2)
I will ensure that Project based learning is the
main course, and not just the dessert, by presenting the project first for each
unit before teaching the content. The students will know that through the
project they will learn key topics that will allow them to complete the
project. Therefore, instead of teaching the content first, I will present the
content based on where they are in the project.
3)
The section “Helping the Chefs Meet the 21st
Century Goals for Students” hits this question on the nose. I believe the main things
that I will need is administrative support, professional development, and collaboration
with other teachers. I enjoy bouncing ideas off other teachers and using those
ideas to improve my lesson or project. Having administration support will let
the students know that not only do I care, but the principals also care.
4)
When other teachers ask me about my PBL intentions,
I will let them know all of the benefits. I will share with them that it helps
student retain knowledge, helps students think critically, allows them to learn
how to follow a process, and shows the students how what they are learning is
used in the real world. My intention is to create productive and self-motivated
citizens and employees.
I agree completely with your answer to number three. In order for our students to succeed with this teaching strategy, it will need to be support and implemented throughout every content area. With administrative support, they can assure this to be happening. It is important for our students to have these real-world experiences in order to succeed in life and outside of school.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete"I believe the main things that I will need is administrative support, professional development, and collaboration with other teachers." I said the same thing. Unless we, as teachers, have the full support and backing from administrators on and off-site, we cannot be successful.
ReplyDeleteAnother benefit of not teaching the content first is that you don't necessarily need to present information whole group. If some of the groups don't need the information you plan on presenting, they can spend more time working on their project and you could pull small groups for some targeted instruction. Great post!
ReplyDeleteProfessional development will be critical if other teachers are to follow along. I'm not really sure if this can be delivered in a couple of sessions. PBL is pretty intense and it may require a financial investment by the district allowing more teachers to be part of a PBL course to demonstrate the concept and walk them through the process. Really a full day workshop is needed.
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah,
ReplyDeleteYou shared how you will begin your pbl unit with the project launch from the very beginning so students will know what they will be working towards and that will provide them with a purpose and ongoing opportunities to engage in sustained inquiry.
Thanks,
Dawn