- Thoughts on how PBL benefits me...
I think PBL has helped me to take a more student-centered approach to teaching. I have learned to expect more out of my class and allow them freedom to explore topics on their own, while still maintaining a sense of control. PBL allows me to be more creative in teaching different subjects. I think the greatest benefit of PBL is that it can combine many different teaching styles to help me meet the needs of all my students.
- Thoughts on how PBL benefits my students...
The greatest benefit for the students is that they can take ownership of their work. Students feel a greater sense of responsibility when working on a PBL because they can make choices for themselves. My students have gone beyond what is expected of them and want to pursue learning further since they have a choice of how to learn a subject. PBL gives students a chance to work collaboratively and independently and create an end result that is meaningful to them.
- What have some challenges been?
One of the challenges I have faced includes trying to gain access to enough computers so that students can research information. Another challenge has been to manage time effectively so that the PBL's are done in a reasonable time frame. A final challenge has been to find a way to keep everything organized and stay on top of the paperwork that is often involved in creating new PBL's.
- How did you overcome the challenges?
I was fortunate enough to get extra computers in my classroom, so I have worked with my students to come up with a schedule so that everyone has an opportunity to use the computer. I also take advantage of the media center whenever possible. To help with time management, the first time I use a new PBL I always plan for more time then I need. This way I do not panic if the PBL takes longer and if the time is not needed I can just begin my next activity earlier. The final challenge of organization requires a lot of time. I make sure that I have an idea of what I need to do before I begin the PBL. I also give my self plenty of time to prepare materials so I am not overwhelmed at the last minute. I have found that the easiest way to keep all the paper organized if using lots of folders and organizers.
- What learner-active strategies have been successful for you?
I think the strategies that have been most successful for me are cooperative groups and reciprocal teaching. I have found that the students work quite well in groups when they are matched correctly! The students are willing to help each other and share information rather then viewing each activity as a competition. Reciprocal teaching has also helped because students can teach each other information in a way that makes more sense than what I might say. Sometimes students can explain things to each other more easily because they can relate to each other on a different level than students and teachers.
- What goals have you set for implementing more in your classroom?
I try to set reasonable goals for myself. I make my goals small and take one step at a time rather than trying to do too much and not do it well. Some of the goals I have set are to make my classroom more learner active and have the children see me as a guide rather than someone with all the answers. I would also like to make my students as independent as possible. Many students are unsure of themselves and are afraid to take risks, but I would like to encourage students to try things rather then hold back. I have also set a goal to incorporate at least one PBL in every subject I teach. I would also like to create a PBL that is interdisciplinary across the grade level that involved all of the teachers working on a different piece of the PBL in each class.
|