After reading the articles about project-based learning
(PBL), I am not so sure that I have actually implemented a true PBL activity in
the classroom before. Diane McGrath (2002) defines PBL as “teaching and
learning around projects that are driven by an authentic question or problem
that is central to the discipline/curriculum, involves the building of a
community of learners, and culminates in the presentation of students
constructed work to an outside audience” (p. 42). I feel that I have
incorporated parts of this teaching style into my teaching when I was in the
classroom, but I had factors of control that did not allow me to fully call it PBL.
I think I honestly was scared to let the students have that much control and
freedom when I as in the classroom because I was afraid of not meeting the
standards. After reading these articles, I have a different opinion about that
now. I should have let them experiment more themselves and ask questions to
drive their own thinking. They would have been more motivated to learn
something in a way that they would like to learn. I do agree that it probably does
increase student test scores. I do think this type of learning works better
with older students though. They are able to work more independently from the
teacher to find answers to driving questions. I find that younger students are
still unsure of themselves and still seek approval from their teachers.
Hopefully by completing this implementation project I will be able to feel more
comfortable with the teaching approach.
Reference:
McGrath, D. (2002). Getting started with project-based
learning. Learning and Leading with
Technology 30(3), 42-45.
I too have only partially implemented PBL in my classroom (if it is technically PBL if you only do it partially!?) and for the same two reasons! I think that we all feel so pressured by high-stakes testing that we are often quite hesitant to try something so bold, especially if it is going to take up a significant amount of classroom time! I think that PBL can work well at almost any level, but it probably needs to have a little bit more structure at the elementary level. At this point, one of the biggest factors for me to not do something like this in my classes is because I just do not have the time to plan it! Maybe once the math curriculum stays the same for a few years in a row??? :)
ReplyDeleteI think there are alot of teachers who utilize portions of the PBL approach, but for reasons similar to those you stated, are not comfortable implementing a true PBL model. My biggest concern is time. I can barely get grades done in a timely manner because I spend the majority of my "free" time helping students. I tutor during lunch, during my planning and afterschool. In a way, I teach extended day without the benefit of a pay increase. I say all this not to complain but to just state the obvious...I don't have time to plan a PBL lesson (at least not a good one). This is really sad for me to admit because I think it is an awesome concept and would probably be very successful.
ReplyDeleteHi Diana,
ReplyDeleteI am glad that you are open to a new initiative. Also, I see your concern of failure to meet the standards or students getting not enough support. They are tough issues, in fact. What we can only do is to plan ahead and plan carefully. This is not always easy. I hope your implementation project prepares you for it!