It's always a great way to branch out of the classroom and get experts helping with projects, a lot can be learned outside the classroom. This will also make it more fun for the students as well as more hands on. Connecting with experts on a topic online can be a great way to learn, maybe skype with the expert as a classroom or take a Field trip. A learning circle isn't just in a classroom but can be made around the world. Expand the students learning to distant countries, this can easily be done through pen pals and blogs. Learning doesn't just happen in the classroom so expand on ideas and get the students working with experts on a topic or project.
The EAST initiative model shows the benefits of using technology for a real purpose to solve problems and make improvements in their communities. EAST gets students using multimedia tools that are found in professional laboratories or design studios. They learn to master these tools and solve community problems that interest them. EAST students have used GPS to map tails of a national park. This idea started back in 1996 and now is used in over seven states and over 260 schools. The model is built on four essential ideas, these are 1. student-driven learning 2. authentic project-based learning 3. technology as tools 4. collaborations. The last critical component is training and support for teachers.
As students become more comfortable with project-based learning they can be more than capable of leading their own projects and even coming up with the topic or idea that they care about. This will get the students more excited to learn. You will have control of the project of course but give the students a chance to lead on everything, from picking the topic, to what kind of technology and project they might put together. This will be more meaningful, getting the students working together better.
At some point it think it's would be a great idea to get the students leading on topics and projects. I believe they will get more out of it when they enjoy the project. The EAST model is great but most schools don't have this yet, so it might be cool to bring it into your classroom and project and show others how it can really help students learn . lastly branching out would be a great idea for our topic just to bring in an expert to better explain ideas to students and even me.
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI agree that students are more interested in learning about topics and doing projects that students are interested in learning about. By letting students research their interest they become an expert on it and can connect with other experts in the world through technology. Project-based learning has many benefits that we as teachers need to take into account when conducting lessons.