So the journey continues! Within the past two weeks we’ve looked at PBL (both project based & problem based learning) and flipping a classroom. With problem based learning and project based learning both are open-ended learning techniques however project based literally states it relates to ‘real-world’ learning, not an open-ended issue, which could be real or fictitious as in problem based learning. Both project and problem based learning have been implemented throughout the educational system for generations allowing students a more in-depth analysis of the teachers/schools planned curriculum. To assist with learning more about project based learning I explored a website from Bob Pearlman, which includes 7 topics with videos relating to Project Based Learning. (http://www.bobpearlman.org/BestPractices/PBL_videos.htm#real ) Section four ‘The Building Blocks of Project Based Learning’ and section six ‘Problem Based Learning: 21st Century Skills & Assessment’ were quite interesting. Within section 4 it discusses the deeper learning style & how it teaches the students to be leaders opening up their creative side as they collaborate. I especially liked hearing about the reflection at the end of the PBL unit, where the teachers and students discuss the positives and aspects to alter for the next time to create a stronger unit for all involved. Then within section 6 there are 3 videos and in the last video teachers discussed how they were getting the students ‘globally ready’ by utilizing the PBL approach. This section also discussed the online grade book, which in this case was maintained throughout their high school career and really showed the students growth. The comment section assisted students and parents to better understand the content process, which leads to stronger relationships between teachers, students and parents. This website tied together all the aspects we had discussed within unit 4 nicely for me and more.
       Then there’s flipping a classroom. Flipping a classroom was a completely new term for me but not a new concept. I can recall when I was in school back in the 80’s some of my teachers having us doing the readings at home then together we’d discuss and explore what we read. I know it’s not completely the same as what Bergermann and Sams’ discuss in their book (and numerous webcasts) but it still was a hands on approach that was taking our learning to a higher level (and our desks weren’t in perfect little rows either). While all the information Bergermann & Sams discussed was quite informative I found John Sowashs’ video ‘5 Things I wish I knew when I flipped my class mp4’ to be quite beneficial. (https://youtu.be/4JPdGlyt6gg) Although much of the information is the same Sowash spoke of how he flipped independently, whereas Bergermann & Sams were working as a team. It made me believe that one teacher flipping their classroom in a school can make a difference and encourage others to flip as well.
      As a person who learns more by doing, not just hearing or reading, exploring PBL and flipping a classroom has been an eye opener. I’m all for putting the learning in the hands of the student and guiding them through the process, building their critical thinking skills and making them ‘globally ready’ for their future in a creative manner. As my daughter progresses in school I look forward to seeing which approaches her teachers utilize. I will be sure to continue to build on her creativeness and critical thinking skills as well to better prepare her for the future.

 

 http://www.bobpearlman.org/BestPractices/PBL_videos.htm#real  Pearlmann, Bob. Project Based Learning
Bergermann, J., and Sams, A. (2012). Flip your classroom: Reach every student in every class every day. Eugene, Or: ISTE.
https://youtu.be/4JPdGlyt6gg  Sowash, John. 5 Things I wish I knew when I flipped my class mp4