Beyond the Classroom Walls: Active PBL in Buhler

As I listened to the teachers share their projects at our January, state-wide, TRC meeting, I was amazed! I thought to myself, many of these teachers started the school year not knowing how to use any technology except email. Now, only five months later, they are able to share quality integration ideas, resources and tips that their peers get excited about!

When I returned home, I reflected on my previous experience as a TRC classroom teacher and realized it was the same as the current group. The learning curve was tremendous during my first year. When I started the second year, I knew how to use the equipment, and I had experimented with integrating technology into the curriculum, but I had to figure out how to integrate the technology so that I was addressing standards while facilitating the student use of higher order thinking skills. I began dabbling in Project Based Learning (PBL).

Project Based Learning is the essence of 21st century skills. It allows students to collaborate, create, think critically, practice information literacy, and delve into life skills, while addressing the core learning standards. I want to share three PBL projects that our TRCs are currently engaged in.

Beyond Our Classroom Walls: Traffic Troubles

There is an extremely busy intersection close to our building. One of our students was involved in an accident at this intersection. He now has a scar on his cheek. Our TRC students want to see a change made in traffic management at this intersection. We are collecting data by counting how many vehicles go through the intersection during peak hours of the day using equipment borrowed from the city (see picture on right).

Students are using the data to make charts and graphs on their computer; then they are comparing the results. The students will decide whether or not to write letters to the city council to persuade them to install a stoplight, a four way stop, speed bumps or speed reduction signs.

Critical Thinking: Dr. Data

Another project we have developed to extend beyond our classroom is our “Dr. Data Blog.” Students are answering questions as readers post on our comment section. To view the blog, go to http://eaglesdoctordata.blogspot.com/ We would like to encourage you to make Dr Data one of your math lessons where you ask your students to consider a math concept (e.g. Adding Decimals, Multiplying Fractions, etc) and come up with questions that they have for Dr. Data. Our students can then take those questions and craft solutions, including video, sound or graphics, to answer. We would love to hear from you!

Creativity and Collaboration: Public Service Announcements

Finally, our local Health Department is holding a contest for the best public service announcement made by a student; so we are having students create a podcast to enter into the contest. This is directly related to our 6th grade curriculum on health, reading, and writing. We hope you enjoy this example: Smokey No Smokey.m4a

If you would like to explore PBL for yourself, check out one of the following websites and begin dabbling.

• http://mrsoshouse.com
• http://www.globalschoolnet.org (go to project registry to find projects)
• http://www.ct4me.net/math_projects.htm#Projects (links to many projects)
• http://teachingtechnology.suite101.com/article.cfm/7_online_science... (has list of science projects on the web)

Hopefully between now and the end of next year, PBL will become a natural part of your teaching style. Then you too, will begin to look at your own communities to bring about a change or help a neighbor. Above all, PBL will facilitate collaboration, encourage critical thinking, and extend the learning of your students beyond the walls of your classroom.

~Tammy Gilley, TRC Facilitator, Buhler USD

Please share links and resources to other PBL lessons and ideas in the Comment Box below!