The research on student learning is clear -
We all have different "intelligences" and learning styles. Project based learning is complex enough to have components within where all students can excel. It is easy to also build in some "choice" so students can exhibit their understanding through their strengths. There is no excuse anymore not to differentiate. There are an abundance of lesson design resources to make this an easy task.
In the past few years I have dramatically discovered the value of well-constructed checklists and rubrics to support student self-direction. Students that hesitate, procrastinate, or have difficulty staying on task are usually uncertain about what the task is. In order to be a self-directed learner the purpose and procedures of the learning must clear. Rubrics given at the start of a project immediately tell the students what success will look like. Checklists will keep them organized. If there are no surprises to trip them up, students can manage their own learning.
One other thing...
Students need feedback often throughout a project or activity. This feedback will allow them to continue with confidence.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
Good points here. We all need those checks and balances - checklists, roadmaps but also feedback and encouragement along the way.
I do like the idea of using checklists. I use them personally but don't really think to have students be responsible for their own work and use checklists. I think that students would really like to see what needs to be done and feel accomplished once a task was complete.
Post a Comment