Designing projects that are engaging and promotes critical
thinking is a difficult, yet rewarding task. One way to make this process
easier is to be aware of potential pitfalls. Projects should be “right-sized”
meaning they shouldn’t be too long, or full of busy work. Also, teachers should
be mindful of how they are using technology in the project; there should always
be a significant learning outcome. Another important area to consider is thematic
units. Themes should involve the community, not just a symbol.
Good projects should start with student curiosity and
interest. In addition to ideas for projects coming from the students, there is
a vast amount of internet resources for creating the perfect project every
time. These amazing projects are designed around student collaboration and
teamwork; incorporating 21s Century Skills. A classroom that implements these
types of projects is free of traditional learning environment characteristics.
When designing a project, it is essential to make a list of
learning and objectives for core standards. Next, decide which 21st
Century Skills will be addressed, and be very specific. After you have
determined what it is you want your student to learn, you must then decide how
you measure their understanding. In PBL
projects, this task does not involve a traditional one-size-fits-all test.
Next, imagine how you can make present this topic in a manner that the students
will see value; make connections. Finally, how will you grab their interest?
What will you say, or do, on the first day that will pull them in?
My project involves the community, various types of learning
“vehicles” and assessments. My students will be exposed to art, research,
technology, and will have fun throughout the entire unit. I believe that
announcing to the class that our end result will be a community event, in which
parents, community members and school officials will attend, will certainly
grab their attention.
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