Thursday, September 18, 2014

Reflection 1 (Allison Burt)


Allison Burt

Reflection 1

Discussion on what you need to keep in mind as you start the journey through Project-Based Learning (PBL).

When you are doing a Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach you need to be able to communicate well with your group members. There should be a team leader that will make sure group members are on task. Each person in your group should progress-monitor themselves to make sure deadlines are being met. Collaboration is key when putting together a big project. Always keep your eye set on your group’s goal for the end product.

Discussion on the overall benefits of the PBL approach.

            In PBL, the teacher’s role is a guide. At first they may be overwhelmed developing the curriculum of projects; however, it will be less work for them in the end. They also can ask critical thinking questions to their students throughout the process of PBL. When doing PBL it applies real world concepts to their learning. The students will learn to think critically, problem solve, and collaborate with their group members while teachers observe them.

Discussion on the benefits to students who participate in PBL.

Using PBL will allow students in this digital-age to be engaged in their learning.  Traditionally, students are in rows facing the teacher while he/she lectures. This generation needs to be able to think critically and engage with their peers. Teachers are able to differentiate instruction for those who are visual and hands-on learners. Overall, PBL challenges your students, provides accommodations, and teaches students essential work ethics.

Discussion on what issues need to be considered in PBL approach.

In the text, Paul Curtis explained how he had to fight battles by using PBL, because no other teachers in the school used that approach. Students were complaining about how challenging his class was. The students didn’t realize this class will better prepare them for the future. Teachers need to be informed with what PBL can offer students and collaborate with colleagues in the school to make PBL effective.

A parent’s perspective of their child using technology may be negative for schooling. Some may think technology is a distraction for their child, because of games. As educators, you need to be able to inform others about the benefits of using a PBL approach. Not only should you inform parents, but it is important to inform your colleagues as well.

Discussion on New Technology High as an example of New Technology Model.

New Technology High is a school driven by using a PBL approach. Everything the school does is research-based. Students will be able to demonstrate and make informed decisions regarding their projects. This school will allow students to collaborate among their peers. There is also limited textbook and paper use. Students will be able to perform and do their tasks at school, which leaves little homework at home.

 

 

2 comments:

  1. Hi Allison!
    I agree with your statement about students feeling like PBL is hard, I was a student who experienced PBL and it was extremely hard. But I think that this is because students had not experienced it before. My parents though were very supportive of this approach because they saw improvement in my grades because PBL for myself as a student was a better way of learning.

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  2. Communication is such a crucial part in the PBL process, as you said in your first response. I wonder about how students who don't like working in groups or are typically more anti-social with fair in a Group learning atmosphere? Its also interesting that the PBL process coincides with the way the world is moving regarding instant access to open dialogue and ability to communicate with people from all over the world, It really forces people to listen and work together for the best outcome.

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