Project-Based Learning

http://www.edutopia.org/teaching-module-pbl

• "Start with the Essential Question
• Design a Plan for the Project
• Create a Schedule
• Monitor the Students and the Progress of the Project
• Assess the Outcome
• Evaluate the Experience"

"Take a real-world topic and begin an in-depth investigation. Base your question on an authentic situation or topic. What is happening in your classroom? In your community? Select a question about an issue students will believe that, by answering, they are having an impact on. Make it relevant for them. The question should be a "now" question -- a question that has meaning in your students' lives."

"Assessment meets many needs. It

• provides diagnostic feedback.
• helps educators set standards.
• allows one to evaluate progress and relate that progress to others.
• gives students feedback on how well they understand the information and on what they need to improve.
• helps the teacher design instruction to teach more effectively.

Whenever possible, give the students the opportunity to conduct self-assessment. When a student's assessment and the teacher's assessment don't agree, schedule a student-teacher conference to let the student explain in more detail his or her understanding of the content and justify the outcome."

"Allow for individual reflection, such as journaling, as well as group reflection and discussion. (For example, validate what students have learned and make suggestions for improvements.)

To enable effective self-evaluation, follow these steps:

• Take time to reflect, individually and as a group.
• Share feelings and experiences.
• Discuss what worked well.
• Discuss what needs change.
• Share ideas that will lead to new questions and new projects."