I've begun a new summer class at Boise State and it's centered around Project-Based Learning. This also happens to be my last class on the road towards earning my certification in Technology Integration. It's been an excellent program so far and I'll be sad to see it go, I've definitely learned a ton this past year. For our first assignment, I chose to write about the basics of Project-Based Learning, Problem-Based Learning, and the differences between them. You'll find my thoughts below:
Group 1: What is Project Based Learning?
1) Define Project Based Learning. Describe the difference between Project Based Learning and Problem Based Learning.
In Project Based Learning (PBL) students are presented with a complex question, problem, or challenge that they must solve through an extended process of inquiry. Students are allowed some freedom of choice throughout the activity; however, PBL lessons must be planned and managed very carefully to ensure that the students will successfully complete the lesson.
Problem Based Learning has many similarities to Project Based Learning. Both involve real-world problems, both include formative and summative assessments, both are student-centered and teacher-facilitated, and both require critical thinking throughout the process. The difference between the two mainly arises in their application. Project Based Learning primarily focuses on the end product (although formative evaluations are an important part), while Problem Based Learning focuses more on the problem and the process.
Resources:
http://www.bie.org/about/what_is_pbl/
http://prezi.com/vrh3t2hgt_jt/project-vs-problem-based-learning/
http://etcjournal.com/2011/06/26/project-based-vs-problem-based-learning/
http://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/virtualwkshp/virtualwkshp002.shtml
2) Why should teachers consider incorporating PBL in their classroom?
When organized and facilitated correctly, Problem Based Learning can be an incredibly beneficial and engaging educational tool. PBL helps students gain a deeper understanding of a topic, teaches students how to collaborate, improves inquiry and critical thinking skills, and allows the students to make real-world connections. However, teachers must approach PBL with caution. An enormous amount of work goes into the front-end of a PBL lesson and if teachers attempt to implement a poorly constructed PBL lesson, the results may be counterproductive.
Resources:
http://www.bie.org/about/what_is_pbl/
3) What are the essential components of a PBL approach to instruction?
Problem Based Learning is typically organized into 8 essential components:
Resources:
http://www.bie.org/images/uploads/useful_stuff/7_Essentials_PBL_EdLeaderSept10.pdf
1) Define Project Based Learning. Describe the difference between Project Based Learning and Problem Based Learning.
In Project Based Learning (PBL) students are presented with a complex question, problem, or challenge that they must solve through an extended process of inquiry. Students are allowed some freedom of choice throughout the activity; however, PBL lessons must be planned and managed very carefully to ensure that the students will successfully complete the lesson.
Problem Based Learning has many similarities to Project Based Learning. Both involve real-world problems, both include formative and summative assessments, both are student-centered and teacher-facilitated, and both require critical thinking throughout the process. The difference between the two mainly arises in their application. Project Based Learning primarily focuses on the end product (although formative evaluations are an important part), while Problem Based Learning focuses more on the problem and the process.
Resources:
http://www.bie.org/about/what_is_pbl/
http://prezi.com/vrh3t2hgt_jt/project-vs-problem-based-learning/
http://etcjournal.com/2011/06/26/project-based-vs-problem-based-learning/
http://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/virtualwkshp/virtualwkshp002.shtml
2) Why should teachers consider incorporating PBL in their classroom?
When organized and facilitated correctly, Problem Based Learning can be an incredibly beneficial and engaging educational tool. PBL helps students gain a deeper understanding of a topic, teaches students how to collaborate, improves inquiry and critical thinking skills, and allows the students to make real-world connections. However, teachers must approach PBL with caution. An enormous amount of work goes into the front-end of a PBL lesson and if teachers attempt to implement a poorly constructed PBL lesson, the results may be counterproductive.
Resources:
http://www.bie.org/about/what_is_pbl/
3) What are the essential components of a PBL approach to instruction?
Problem Based Learning is typically organized into 8 essential components:
- Built on Significant Content – The project must be organized around an idea or topic that is rich in content and which offers the students an opportunity to explore and dig deep.
- A Need to Know – To be effectively motivated and engaged, students should understand the importance of the topic and it should be something they can relate and connect with.
- A Driving Question – Central to PBL is the idea of a “driving question.” Much like the thesis of an essay, the driving question is the focus of the project.
- Student Voice and Choice – To help keep students involved, they must have some input in the direction of the project. That being said, the teacher must also have a clear path and destination laid out in order to ensure the project ends successfully.
- 21st Century Skills – A PBL lesson should give students the chance to build collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and technology skills.
- Inquiry and Innovation – Throughout a PBL lesson, students must conduct research, test hypotheses, and discover new ideas.
- Feedback and Revision – A critical element of PBL is providing students with feedback and allowing them to revise and update their original ideas and methods.
- Publicly Presented Product – The culminating activity in a PBL lesson should be giving the students an opportunity to publicly share their product and the knowledge they have gained.
Resources:
http://www.bie.org/images/uploads/useful_stuff/7_Essentials_PBL_EdLeaderSept10.pdf