Thursday, July 15, 2010

Project-Based Learning and Reflection on Auburn Early Education Center

The main goal of Project-Based Learning (PBL), is to develop problem-solvers. In the video we watched and from what I have previously learned about PBL, students begin their project from their own natural curiosity. This helps to spark interest from the beginning. From their natural curiosity, a whole thematic unit can encompass their curriculum. When the 5 year olds were preparing a funeral for their lost pet, the teacher commented on how she was able to incorporate math, writing, reading, social studies and science all into the project while keeping students interest levels high. They had purpose behind their tasks.
Another piece of PBL is the opportunity to create, use critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration. Teachers need to be patient and allow students to reflect and discover. After the video, there were some comments posted. Some of these comments were from parents of students who attend AEEC. One parent commented that sometimes students make mistakes, or sometimes their project doesn't work. They reflect on why it didn't work out the way they had planned and move forward. All of these experiences help prepare students for real-life situations.
The final piece of PBL is to publicly present what they have learned. This is an important step for accountability. This piece in particular will motivate their group collaboration and instill the importance of finishing a project, even though, with this kind of environment, the students realize that the learning never ends.

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