Project-based Learning (PBL)
Project-based learning, in particular, can enhance the use of Web offerings in many new ways..
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An annual conference in project-based learning features cutting-edge theorists and practitioners--lotsa demos. Technology lends itself especially to PBL because it is a "tool" to integrate concepts and skills and processes in heretofore unexplored territory.
Unsure about how PBL has been developed? These features usually characterize project-based learning: cross-disciplinary topics; multi-modal learning and incorporation of multiple data types; extended engaged time, eg. several weeks at most grade levels; and a complex, mostly student-directed product outcome. See the annotation below.
Many of the cool projects, referenced in this Instructional Media Center, have adopted this approach. You can construct your own PBL by combining treks and databases, for instance, and studying integrated studies as models. The collections of lesson plans can be pulled apart for re-combining, also. Begin with the Plan Book so your projects will embed standards and assessment. Resources in the Student Stuff and Multimedia Rooms will enhance your students' projects.
Another alternative approach to science curricula, in particular, is event-based science for very young students. Weather, current discoveries, etc. are harnassed as triggers for in-depth study.
Check the site for the dates of the annual conference in PBL.
Microsoft and ISTE are collaborating to deliver an interdisciplinary, international project. Some 50 countries have bought into the curriculum and adapted to a particular culture. In Denmark, for instance, one is supposed to be humble and not stand out from others so the "heroes" unit was changed to focus on sports heroes.
The Northwest Regional Laboratory shows stepbystep implementation which stimulate in-depth exploration.
Annotation
Searching the Web for PBL sites yields thousands of references. To simplify your explorations look at the regional labs' resources under the titles Technology Planning: Regional, State and Local Collections and National, State and Regional Networks. MCREL, in particular, has placed several concept papers about PBL.
Like any other instructional method PBL should be applied carefully. It requires more advanced planning but can yield richer learning and more efficient use of precious instructional time.Working with colleagues, either locally or at remote sites, will be exciting. Look at the Conference Center and Workroom for telecollaborating software.
