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=Introduction to Project-Based Learning = = = PLN 1: [|Micheal D], [|Tara F], [|Stephanie M], [|Megan R], [|Amanda W]

What is Project-Based Learning?
Project-Based Learning, also known as PBL, is a way for students to learn through projects. The use of projects allows the student to thoroughly understand and explore a topic or lesson that has been given to them. Project-Based Learning is based on student inquiry and allows the student to research and critically analyze a problem, issue, or question at hand which will help the student think and learn at the highest level of [|Bloom's Taxonomy].

Why use Project-Based Learning in education?
There are many[| benefits to using Project-Based Learning in education]. The first advantage is that a good portion of PBL is done in groups, which gives students the opportunity to work and collaborate with other students who may not be at the same level as they are. With this being the case, the students can learn from each other, allowing them to expand upon their own knowledge and ways of thinking. Also when the students are given a question or problem that is interesting and a little complex it allows them to expand their critical thinking skills. By doing so they will be able to think deeper and more critically on a more regular basis.

Planning a PBL Lesson:

 * Begin with the end in mind.
 * Ask yourself: "What do you want the students to create? Why are they creating it?" Then work backwards from there. Use curriculum and standards to direct your planning.
 * Craft the driving question.
 * Break down the project theme into a significant, meaningful question. It should require [|higher-level thinking] to answer it.
 * [|Craft the Driving Question] - this site will walk you through the process of writing effective DQs.
 * Plan the assessment.
 * Every project should be driven by an explicit set of outcomes that encompass the content and skills students are expected to learn. The assessment is shared with students at the beginning of the project and throughout the process.
 * Map the project.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">A project map is the step-by-step process the students go through to complete the project. It provides the sequence of activities, structures the project, and directs students. The project should be centered around hands-on activities and should include plans for [|differentiation].
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">Manage the process.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">Although PBL looks chaotic, successful projects are carefully managed by teachers. Teachers become facilitators and guides. They do not transmit information. Students learn to manage themselves and take responsibility for their own work. Self-assessment is built into the project. Teachers can manage the process through checkpoints, milestones, employing problem-solving skills, and using authentic assessment.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">Give the project time.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">PBL takes A LOT of time - both in planning and execution. Projects may last weeks, months, or even the entire school year.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">Integrate technology throughout the project.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">The integration of technology should be seamless and meaningful. This means employing the use of technology in ways that make sense and enhance the experience. PBL projects that truly integrate technology cannot be completed without it.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">Identify specific forms of technology to be used. There are numerous forms of technology available - from basics such as the internet, computers, printers, scanners, and document cameras to cutting edge technology such as SMART boards, cell phones, digital cameras, and GPS devices as well as many more.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">Describe how the technology listed will be used. Make sure readers have a clear understanding of how to use the technology required to complete the project.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">Don't forget software or web apps! If your project requires specific titles, list them as well.

<span style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 110%;">Resources :

 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">[|Teachers Network: PBL]
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">This PBL informational website will help students and teachers understand exactly what is meant by project-based learning and how they can get the most out of their group work. There is also other links at the bottom of the website that will take students or teachers to other PBL information websites. (Micheal)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">[|Project, Problem, and Inquiry-Based Learning]
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">This site was useful because it told us what a PBL was and gave us other websites to go to in order to expand our knowledge. It provides examples of PBL's and includes what are useful elements of a PBL that teachers need to add so that it is easy to follow. (Stephanie)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">[|Bucket Buddies: Project Overview]
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">This project is a good example of working collaboratively with other classrooms across the globe. This site is also helpful because it includes extensive detail of what teachers need to include in a project in order to ensure that it meets nation and state standards and promotes student learning in all different subject areas. (Tara)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">[|U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management]
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">This site is exteremly useful for any teacher in the greater northwest who is working on a science progrect with their class regarding the outdoors. It offers great resources, events, viewings, meetings, and information about environmental education as a whole. (Megan)
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">[|Collaborative project-based learning and problem-based learning in higher education]
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">This is a site that gives an overview of what Project-Based Learning is and explains some of the differences between project-based learning and collaborate project-based learning. The site also gives a good description of what Project-Based Learning is. (Amanda W)

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">Go To: Brainstorm Page or Turning a new leaf PBL page