Recently there has been a buzz around both flipped instruction (where students are exposed to material at home via online content before practicing in class) as well as project based learning (PBL). I experimented with flipped instruction last year using Edmodo as a launch point for online content I linked to my class. I felt so-so about the experience but chalked it up to being 8 months pregnant and a fist time flipper. However, I’ve never really given PBL a fair shake. But I’ve recently seen more articles and resources out there on project based learning. I wanted to share them here and see if anyone else has advice for teachers who might be considering making the switch to PBL.
- “The Flip: The End of a Love Affair” by Shelly Wright – This teacher describes why and how she shifted her instruction from the flipped model to project based learning. It is a quick read but also a well thought out argument in favor of using projects to engage students in authentic learning.
- “For Authentic Learning, Start With Real Problems” by Suzie Boss – This is a condensed explanation of what project based learning is as well as some resources for making it work in various types of classrooms.
- Project Based Learning at Edutopia – A clearinghouse of examples and tips for teachers looking to try out project based learning.
What is your experience with PBL? Please share links, stories or potential help for others (OK, so help for me) if you have a moment.
The Sacred Profession 