Session+5

=Session 5: Project Based Learning=


 * 5.1: Introduction to Project Based Learning **

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1. What opportunities for project based learning currently exist within your department? As a department, we have project based learning projects attached to the core subjects. The 9th grade US I classes complete service projects as part of the G-Citizen Program. This year US II and Modern World History classes completed different types of project based learning projects on the topic of Debate and Diplomacy as part of the National History Day Program. We also piloted student participation in the Model UN program in two of the Modern World history classes. In addition to these programs members of our department complete various types of project based learning group projects on various topics. Projects take the forms of websites, creation of songs, skits and the use of presentation tools such as a Prezi.

2. What opportunities does project based learning provide for our students? Project based learning involves hands-on, student driven projects that give a student or group of students an opportunity to solve a problem and demonstrate their learning using different forms of media such as a website, video, documentary, or performance skit or song, just to name a few. Student centered activities also promote academic achievement and critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills.

3. What potential weaknesses exist in this approach to education?

Possible weaknesses include the possibility of students wandering off task and the need to have good research and organization skills to produce a successful project.

**5.4: Use of Glog **

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A glog is a virtual poster that requires thought and creativity. Students are able to highlight what they feel were the key parts of a text or unit and display them using many forms of multi-media. One of the most attractive use of this tool is the thought process that is required of the students to decide what they want to display on their glog. It requires them to re-think what they know on a topic and to review their understanding of the topic. Many students approach the glog as a fun tool but it actually requires a good deal of critical thinking to make them effective.