Obviously we have an issue with PROBLEM SOLVING.... So how do we fix it?

****MEANINGFUL PROJECTS that use PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUES

THE 6 A's of PROJECT BASED LEARNING

Authenticity

Is this project based on a problem or question that is meaningful to the student?

Is the problem of question one that an adult might tackle at work or in the community?

Does this project provide the student with opportunities to produce something that has personal an/or social value beyond the school?

Academic Rigor

Does this project cause the student to acquire and apply knowledge related to one or more disciplines or content areas?

Does this project challenge the student to use research methods from one or more disciplines? (Ex. Does it cause them to think like a scientist, like a caterer, daycare provider, use applied math, etc.)

Does the student develop higher-order thinking skills? (Ex. does it cause them to search for evidence or seek a different perspective?)

Applied Learning

Does the student solve (e.g. design a product, improve a system of organize an event) a problem that is grounded in life and work?

Does the project require organizational skills and self-management?

Does this project cause the student to learn and use skills (such as problem-solving, communication, technology and teamwork) that are expected in the workplace?

Active Exploration

Does the student spend a significant amount of time doing field-based work?

Does the project require the student to use various methods, media and sources to conduct an investigation?

Is the student expected to make a presentation to explain what he or she has learned?

Adult Relationships

Does the student meet and observe an adult who has relevant expertise and experience?

Does the student work closely with - and get to know - at least one adult?

Do adults collaborate with each other and with students on the design and assessment of projects?

Assessment

Does the student use project criteria (that they helped establish) to gauge what they are learning?

Do adults from outside the classroom help the student develop a sense of real-world standards?

Is the student's work assesses regularly through methods such as exhibitions and portfolios?

*The 6 A's of project-based learning are taken from the 1997 book Real Learning, Real Work: School-to-Work as High School Reform by Adria Steinberg

*I suggest to try and meet at least 4 of the 6 A's. This will help provide rationale behind your project.

GENERAL QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF ABOUT THE PROJECT YOU WISH TO IMPLEMENT

WHY ARE WE DOING THIS PROJECT?

WHAT WILL MY STUDENT GAIN FROM COMPLETING IT?

CAN THIS PROJECT BE APPLIED TO THE 'REAL WORLD'?

CAN I USE THE FINISHED PROJECT TO ASSESS MY STUDENT'S LEARNING?