I Used to Think, But Now I Know...
I don't know if this exactly fits the framework of the statement above, but what I've learned is that inquiry is the thread that connects many different PBL-type experiences. Things like personalized learning, genius hour, PBL units, and even our protocols are all interwoven by this thread of inquiry. The most important thing for our students in today's world is to provide them the chance to engage in sustained inquiry regardless of the format it takes on.
One huge takeaway is that all these inquiry-based models are TOUGH!!! No matter which form you use, there is a ton of prep work that has to be done up-front by teachers, and if we really want students to be in the driver's seat, then we have to have the groundwork laid and provide scaffolding for them. We have to have thought out every inch of the road ahead, but also be willing to monitor and adjust for the bumps in the road we didn't see. (And, my goodness! There were a LOT of unexpected bumps!) They need us to prepare and show up as our best selves every day, ready to facilitate and be there guide throughout the journey. As much as middle schoolers want to act like they don't need grown-ups, they definitely show (in a million quiet ways) how much they do actually need our support and encouragement.
What I know for sure is that when my students have been engaged in inquiry-based PBL units, using protocols, trying out personalized learning, and being given a chance to drive over this past semester, they are just so much more excited about learning and they are taking on a great deal more ownership for what they learn. There is a new sense of pride and they are slowly but surely developing the agency they crave...especially as middle schoolers who just want a chance to prove themselves!
I can't wait to see where this PBL journey takes us next, and I am seasoned enough now to make SURE I don't forget to buckle my seatbelt for the bumpy road ahead! :D
RACHAEL!!! YESSS! I am so very thankful that you understood the goal of each of the individual assignments/projects for this second class was for you to see the value in sustained inquiry regardless of the pbl structure or format. Whether it is open ended inquiry in Genius Hour or a structured engineering and design STEAM challenge, or a protocol that is collaborative and student driven, the purpose is for these experiences to weave together to provide students with opportunities for sustained inquiry that is engaging and that grows students desire and depth for learning about the overarching question/challenge/topic. You are also right in realizing from this fall experience that this model is tough to implement because it requires intensive pre planning and continual assessment and review of practices and student implementation to ensure that students are learning while they are driving the learning. You shared in your last paragraph that in spite of the challenges you see the student outcomes of engagement and authentic learning as worth it. I can't wait to see where the pbl journey takes us next too! Thank you for your continued enthusiasm and reflectiveness. Sincerely, Dawn
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