The purpose of education is to engage students in experiences that prepare them for life. In an informational age, sharing is driven by the power of connecting with others, however achievement gaps are increasingly rising due to lack of access. Lack of access creates yet another educational gap. Project based learning can increase access to and deepen understanding of complex concepts through the use of live video, animations, simulations, and visualizations.

In a recent study by University of Michigan, researchers found that use of PBL in high poverty communities led to gains in informational reading and social studies. In the study, students in the PBL group scored 63% higher on standard social studies assessments and 23% higher on informational reading. This study is significant because it proves PBL implemented with fidelity can improve academic outcomes for high poverty students currently living in poverty.

This panel understands the work to close this gap. Each panelist will share a story of such an experience with students. Having worked in a variety of educational settings spanning elementary through higher education; panelists will discuss strategies, tools, and opportunities that can help build skills and global collaborative experiences for inner-city and immigrant populations.