According to Edutopia.org, Project-based learning, or PBL is a dynamic classroom approach to teaching in which students actively explore real-world problems and challenges. With this type of active and engaged learning, students are inspired to obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects they’re studying. After researching the different types of learning approaches, I finally decided to write a blog about Project Based Learning.
Nell K. Duke is author and co-author of numerous journal articles and book chapters. Her most recent book is; Inside Information: Developing Powerful Readers and Writers of Informational Text through Project-based Instruction Nell K. Duke
I found a great article; PBL Elementary Teachers Offer Field-Tested Advice written by Andrew Miller who is an Educational Consultant and Instructional coach. This article is very informational, and the best part of all, the advice which is given, comes directly from every day teachers who have actually put PBL to practice in their classrooms with their students. “Who better to give advice about PBL than the teachers doing it? In fact, this post is based on advice from elementary PBL teachers in the field. We can all learn from each other,” says Miller. The key points which are highlighted in this article by teachers are:
- Build Success Skills
- Start Small
- Build Background Knowledge
- Be Intentional With Assessments
- Share the Story
- Be Patient
- Trust Yourself
The teachers who gave opinions on how to use PBL and are found on Twitter are: Erin Starkey, Joanne North, Abby Schneiderjohn, Myla Lee, Lori Burkhardt, Brianna Hand, Cary Grimm, and Kevin Armstrong – PBL Geek.
Below is a great video of a school in Texas that uses PBL and it also explains how learning can be applied to a classroom. Teachers and students are engaged and motivated towards one goal. PBL teaches students how to solve real life problems and come up with solutions to this problems.
These three websites stand out as excellent resources for educators to use to develop and enhance their project-based lesson plans.
Overall, I think PBL is a great way to learn, especially, for those students who learn better with hands on projects and doing the work themselves, rather than just hearing about it or seeing it.
Mayra Pelayo 