Technology In Our Society

Vive Les Villages! Leaders Sharing Project-Based Learning

Key Findings: A unique approach to teaching is through Project-based learning (PBL). PBL is a model for classroom activity that shifts away from the traditional classroom practices of small, isolated, instructor-centered lessons and instead emphasizes learning activities that are long-term and student-centered, and incorporates real world issues and practices. By using the techniques in PBL students are instructed in a unique way by engaging them in their own learning. Students exposed to different subject areas in real time to be involved in the production process, instead of in isolation or in a routine classroom setting.

The reading from the Vive Les Villages article does a superb job as it explains the PBL model. Students learning the French language are put in an environment where all communications and activities are done in that language. It takes away the opportunity to rely on their native tongue, which is English. In this example the student has to experience all interactions and reactions from a French perspective. PBL helps make learning real. It utilizes technology as tool for performing activities just as would be done in an English speaking environment. Real world activities that are performed in the business world are carried out by the student which gives them a first-hand experience with both the language and the activity. The mission is to strengthen the Five C?s ? Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities.

In project based learning, teachers can generate assignments where the difficulties imitate problems in the real world.  Project based learning allow students to work cooperatively with other students.  Also, project based learning allows for communication and problem solving skills.  A student becomes engaged in the learning process and takes ownership of their learning within the curriculum. 

Applying the Lesson: In some of my classes, I plan assignments so that my students can use the hands-on approach to accomplish their work task.  I had the students to complete a lemonade activity where they worked with a partner to earn money for their business.  The team had to use higher order thinking skills to answer questions presented to them regarding their business? profit or loss.  During another activity my students was to be an entrepreneur.  The students had to brainstorm on what type of business they would operate and what type of product they would sell.  This activity required higher order thinking skills.  The activities above were altered to accommodate the different learning styles of each student.  On several occasions, I divide the students into groups and give each group a slate where they can discuss the questions and answers before writing down the group response.  This has proven very beneficial when reviewing for a test.   Often during these discussion and answer times students are able to connect new learning to past learning experiences.   I will continue to incorporate the principles of project based learning into my curriculum to gain more productive and successful learning experiences. 

Posted at 04:55PM Nov 18, 2006 by ljgladne in General  |  Comments[0]