After watching the video and reading some information about Problem Based Learning, I have become a strong advocate of PBL because I think it teaches students to be Proactive Learners. Students become Proactive learners because rather then reading a textbook become in charge of their own learning. In the Virginia Lake School District in Palatine, IL Paula Bullis sixth grade class had the opportunity to participate in a PBL designed to improve scores on the Illinois Goal Assessment Program. Normally, when students hear about the IGAP they think it’s another boring test. However, students took more control of their learning.
The students divided themselves into five groups. One group figured out when and where students could practice for the IGAP. Two groups looked for resources and found math/reading books to help prepare. Another group designed questions to people familiar with the test. The same group interviewed the principal about regarding the scoring of the IGAP. The principal explained how the state decided who meets, does not meet and exceed state standards. The last group set up a tutoring program which focus was to help understand more about the test subjects on the IGAP. In the end, Paula Bullis sixth grade class spent 45 minutes preparing for the IGAP four times a week.
The method described above benefited the students in many ways. First, it helped make them proactive learners because they sought out information. This added to the maturity level of students because they felt as if they were in control of their own learning. Because students felt in control of their learning, they put a lot of effort into it. There was less goofing around and more ethical behavior. I think the PBL also taught the students to be good problem solvers, which is essential in today's world.
Charlie
16 years ago
1 comment:
the PBL project was a good idea. if its used right. i think if its a problem in the school or in the community it can be most effective. that way the students could get a hands on or a first hand account of the problem/situation.
i think its good for kids to feel like they are the mayor of a city and have to make a decsision on waht course of actions should take place to fix a plroblem in teh community. or be the principle and have to make new rules for students to follow.
this teaching stradegy can be very effective and useful whne done right. i think if teh rpoblem is to big and something the students cant relate to then it might not be as useful.
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