Exploring the concept of project-based learning (PBL) as a teaching tool has been a strange and exciting path. The further I read and research the premis behind PBL and the outcomes in the classroom, the more excited I become at the thought of how I can use this in my class. It still seems a far off goal for me though with many obstacles along the way. The benefits of using PBL in the classroom are long reaching. The skills that students gain from participating in a quality PBL will carry them far in their schooling and careers. Perhaps is stating the values and benefits of PBL I will be able to come closer to my goal of implementing such a task in my classes.
Suzie Boss and Jane Kraus state the "hallmarks" of this approach. I would like to take a closer look at each of those listed.
- "Projects become the centerpiece of the curriculum- they are not an add-on or extra at the end of a 'real' unit" (Boss, 2007) How often have we seen students spend countless lecture or reading time on a subject and then complete that big building project at the end to show they have learned about the subject? But have they really? Does the end project mean anything to them? Once the project is the main topic, students research, read and learn to create the final project. The project is not just the end result but part of the study to the end. Students will be inspired to ask questions and search for their own answers.
- "Students engage in real-world activities and practice the strategies of authentic disciplines." (Boss, 2007) PBL provides students with the opportunity to bring relevance to a topic of study. They are able to see how what they learn can be applied in their lives and the lives of others. This eliminates the questions of "when will I ever need this?". Students learn skills to carry them forward in their future schooling and careers.
- "Technology is integrated as a tool for discovery, collaboration and communication" (Boss, 2007) PBL gives teachers and students the opportunity to explore beyond their imaginations. They have access to resources never before possible. It is important to note that technology is integrated within the PBL as a partner to the learning process.
- "Students work collaboratively to solve problems that matter to them." (Boss, 2007) The importance of team work cannot be stressed enough. Students will be able to gain the skills of working with others, accepting and challenging their peers, and rethinking their own thoughts. These skills are valuable to their employers in the future. They will need to be able to think creativly and find solutions with their colleagues.
- "Teachers collaborate to design and implement projects that cross geographic boundaries".(Boss, 2007) PBL fully integrates the curriculum of a school. It brings the total education of a child into the process. Teachers are no longer lonely sheep herders but a collaborative group of educators seeking to lift the students under their care into higher level thinking and exploration of the world around them.
The use of PBL will be a new and bumpy road for many educators. The changing of the old ways to new will take time but the benefits far outnumber the negatives. Especially when students are excited and motivated to learn, how can you say no?
Resources:
Suzie Boss & Jane Kraus. Reinventing project-based learning: Your field guide to real-world projects in the digital age. ISTE. 2007.
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