Project Based Learning

One of the concepts brought up this week was that of Project Based Learning. This concept has been brought up in previous classes, but it is an emphasis of the course that I'm currently taking. Mainly, it's the focus of projects (I'm sure you were able to figure that one out...) in the class, and connecting standards to these projects. It's merits are strong; the student becomes embedded in a situation that exists out of the classroom. It's not a problem found only in a textbook. It's out there, and solutions need to be created. As mentioned in the definition online, it creates higher interest levels for the kids because they see the real-life connections to it. It has purpose and meaning. That can't be said of all assignments that the kids currently do.

Will I use it in the class? Sure. I think there's a lot to be said about its effect on my students. These projects can be something for the students to springboard on to bigger and better things in their future. It could trigger motivations that previously did not exist. Most importantly, it could solve a problem that our society faces.

SOOOOOOO, what's the catch? For one, you have to really, and I mean REALLY, be flexible with your teaching abilities. The reality is that discussion is essential for a project to be completed, and if you aren't comfortable with that in the class, then that's a problem. Also, you have to willingly step into a project where you yourself may not know what the answer is, or even how to get there. There's a lot to be said for teachers who routinely do this in their class, for the levels of trust and patience must be through the roof...

But back to me. I think I can definitely add this into the writings that I currently do in the class. Giving the students more concrete ways of publishing their work is always a huge benefit to all involved. In Math, I think that's the area where I need to step away from what I'm comfortable with, and start taking some chances. Using Project Based Learning is one such example.

So, here's where I leave it to you, the reader. Where would you recommend that I start with a Project in Math? We have our obvious ones (financial problems, designing problems, etc.), but what about some of the more unique ones?

As always, feedback is greatly appreciated. Talk to you later...