I have a feeling I may come back and add more thoughts as I continue reading (I'm only through Chapter 1). So far, it has given a concise descriptors of project-based learning (PBL).
- PBL is active learning.
- PBL is based on questions.
- PBL allows for learners to make choices.
- PBL facilitates teamwork.
- PBL encourages risks.
I am ALL about this. If you could have seen the cover letter I wrote for my current job, I think I spoke to most, if not all, of these points.
The authors quoted the Singapore's Ministry of Education's motto: "Teach Less, Learn More". Let's just ponder that one for a moment. Read it over once more... ask yourself "What does that mean?" If the author wrote only four words in her entire book, I think it should be that motto.
My head is spinning with ideas (not out of the ordinary for me-- hopefully I'll be able to sleep tonight). I can't help but to try to plan my year out based on some of these ideas. But, I feel a little torn based on the constraints of textbook and curriculum adoption. How does one use the curriculum but let questions guide instruction? This is my enduring question.
