Project-Based Learning for our Digital LearnersWhy Teach with Project Learning?

By – Susan Webb

What is Project-Based Learning?

• Students explore real-world problems and challenges

• Active and engaged learning• Students develop confidence and self-

direction

What is Project-Based Learning?

• Authentic learning connecting to real-life issues

• Effective way to integrate technology into the curriculum

Characteristics of Project-Based Learning

• Projects form the centerpiece of the curriculum

• Students engage in authentic real-world activities

Characteristics of Project-Based Learning

• Students work collaboratively to solve problems

• Technology is integrated as a tool for discovery, collaboration and communication

Research Supporting PBL

• Constructivism Learning Theory –focuses on “doing rather than receiving”

• Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences theory

• Inquiry-Based Learning

Research Supporting PBL

• Students are engaged in cooperative learning and collaborative problem solving

• Parallel between project-based learning and process writing.

Benefits of Project-Based Learning

• Increase motivation• Increased problem-solving ability• Improved library research skills• Increased collaboration• Increased resource-management skills

Benefits of Project-Based Learning

Supports the

National Educational

Technology Standards

Students, Teachers,

and Administrators

Design Principal #1Begin with the end in Mind

• Develop a Project Idea• Decide the Scope of the Project• Select Standards• Incorporate Outcomes• Create the Optimal Learning

Environment

Design Principal # 2 Craft the Driving Question

• What is a Driving Question?• Generate the Driving Question• Refine the Driving Question• Use Standards to Develop a Driving

Question.

Design Principal # 3 Plan the Assessment

• Align Products with Outcomes• Know What to Assess• Use Rubrics

Design Principal # 4 Map the Project

• Organize Tasks and Activities• Launch the Project• Gather Resources• Draw a Storyboard

Design Principal # 5 Manage the Process

• Share Project Goals with Students• Use Problem-Solving Tools• Use Checkpoints and Milestones• Plan for Evaluation and Reflection

Technology Tools Considerations• Take inventory of what technology is

available• Include training on how to use the

hardware/software• Learn the Web 2.0 tools

Resources for Project-Based Learning

• Reinventing Project-Based Learning, Suzie Boss and Jane Krauss, 2007 ISTE

• Design Principals for Project-Based Learning Designing your Project

• ISTE – Project Based Learning