Project Based Learning is one of the concepts that are in
vogue in education, yet it’s not new. In fact we can trace Project Based
Learning (PBL) as far to Aristotle and Confucius who strongly believed that
learning should be done by doing. PBL
starts with a question or inquest and as students attempt to find answers and
solutions, they apply learned and new concepts and skills that deepen their
understanding of the topic. PBL connects
life with school making learning meaningful. PBL engages students to use problem solving strategies, apply higher order thinking skills, and develop
critical thinking. PBL aligns with common core standards as it supports the
development of college and work readiness
skills, learning is focused and coherent and rigorous content is explored
through high-order skills. As the learner solves the inquiry, he grasps meaning
of new information received, interprets, and translates it to other
experiences. It works across subject matter as reading, writing, drawing, math,
etc. are used to answer the questions(s). PBL can be used with different
sub-groups including students with special needs, English language learners,
etc. What’s more, PBL works wonderfully in a technological integrated or
flipped classroom as it allows for students to use technology as a tool for
exploring, analyzing, and communicating their options and findings.
PBL can be used in any grade level, for almost any topic.
Watch below this wonderful vimeo of a teacher using it in a Pre-K classroom with English language learners making teaching and learning FUNdamental!
Project-Based Learning in a Digitial Age: All About Me Pre-K from Title IID - Queens, NYCDOE! on Vimeo.
