Chapter 1

There are four main points you need to keep in mind as you start the journey through Project-Based Learning. They include: taking advantage of new digital tools, realizing that projects are worth the effort, realizing that students live and learn in the real world, and new contexts encourage the project approach. I think that project based learning is a great way of learning material.

There are several benefits of using the PBL approach. First, projects form the centerpiece of the curriculum and they are not an add-on or extra at the end of a “real” unit. Therefore, projects are what the students do in the class. Secondly, students engage in real-world activities and practice the strategies of authentic disciplines. There is a lot more application with this type of approach. Thirdly, students work collaboratively to solve problems that matter to them. I think that this is important because students will learn to work together and solving problems is something that will need to be done in the real world. Fourthly, technology is integrated as a tool for discovery, collaboration, and communication. The project based learning approach takes learners places they couldn’t otherwise go. This approach also helps teachers achieve essential learning goals in new ways.  Lastly, teachers collaborate to design and implement projects that cross geographic boundaries or even jump time zones. Another important point is the fact that when teachers have well-designed projects with the use of digital tools this creates wonderful learning experiences.

There are several benefits to students that participate in the PBL approach. Students develop good communication skills, develop good inquiry skills, they learn to be flexible with their working hours, develop an understanding of how the world works, and they begin to understand that individuals can do something about changing the world.

There are several issues that need to be discussed when taking the PBL approach. Your expectations of the students need to be addressed, you need to interact differently with your students, and you need to guide students in managing their progress. The physical arrangement of the class also needs to be changed. Assessment and evaluation of students needs to be changed as well. Whatever materials/artifacts that you keep it is important to make sure that they are worth it. Another important issue is how you communicate with parents and coworkers.  

New Technology High was founded when there was a concern about meeting the work force needs of the 21^st century. The goal was to challenge students to think critically, collaborate in a team, and to use technology. Technology is considered a tool when it comes to learning. Teachers are given time to collaborate and work together as well. The main focus is that the instruction is projects that are based on real-world learning.