1) It is very important to allow some time to reflect on a project. In schools today the learning is happening at a fast pace. In most cases students are moving right into the next project upon completion of another project. Since teacher have so much to get into one year of teaching, reflection is key in order to celebrate students accomplishments throughout that project. Giving the students time to reflect also helps cement the learning that they just went through into their brains.
2) When students reflect it shows that they are capable of explaining what they had just learned. It allows them to not only put the learning into their own words, but also to share their experiences with others. After the students reflect on a project it is important for them to elaborate on that project. A good project should lead right into the next project a constant cycle of learning. Elaborating is important for the student because it allows them to use what they learned and apply it to future projects.
3) It is important for schools to establish a tradition and identity when it comes to project based learning. When students are able to establish a tradition, it sets the stage for future learners. When schools can establish a "staple" project throughout the various grades, it will allow the younger learners to prepare themselves as they rise through the grade levels. Once you develop traditions within the school community members and parents will take notice. It is important to have the support of parents and community in your projects because more support can only make the projects better.
4) Celebrating a project is important for both the students and the teachers. Through celebration, students accomplishments are highlighted for everyone to see. This allows the students to take pride in their work and show it off. As a teacher celebration allows you to see the rich work your students have accomplished.
5) This chapter relates to my project through the celebration piece. In my project we are having a celebration at the end of the project. During this celebration, the students will showcase their work with their peers and families.
As you mentioned, reflection is a key aspect of PBL; especially with learning taking place at the fast rate it occurs at. Reflection helps students look back at what they have been learning and think about future projects of interest.
ReplyDeleteI agree, the "celebration" helps teachers see what students have learned through the entire process in PBL. I think calling the final product a "celebration" is much more exciting for students than saying an "exam." You, as the teacher can change the way your students think about testing/assessing.
ReplyDeleteAllison Burt
I really like how you stated celebrations highlight students accomplishments. I agree. Great job and sentence! I also think it is a great idea to celebrate at the end of your project.
ReplyDeleteAnytime a project can incorporate the parents and the community, i think that will let students know that this is important. It provides extra incentive to take the project seriously because their work will be displayed on a greater scale.
ReplyDelete