During PBL it is necessary to branch out and build connections beyond the classroom. Digital tools make this very easy. Integrating technology can help students reach an authentic audience which can act as a great motivator. Making connections beyond the classroom can help students get into contact with experts. This can result in huge benefits for the students and the experts. This also provides and opportunity to expand the learning circle. This doesn't just mean to the school down the street, students can connect with distant countries and continents. Digital tools also help with communicating findings. When students conduct research or want to raise awareness they can harness their 21st-centurey skills to share their findings or advocate for change.
The Environmental and Spatial Technologies (EAST) Initiative network of schools have been demonstrating the benefits of using technology for a real purpose for more than twelve years. They have done this to solve problems and make changes in their communities. The EAST model is built on four essential ideas. First is that students need to be responsible for their own learning. Second is that students should be focused on solving real problems in their community. Third students need access to the relevant technologies that professionals use to solve real problems. Fourth students need to collaborate in teams to pursue these projects, they accomplish way more as a team than one person could do. Teachers must be trained and supported. EAST teachers must be ready to let student take the lead.
Teachers may find that there students are more than capable of taking the lead on projects. This can begin by them coming up with a project idea that they care about.
These concepts directly relate to our project as we have our students branching out use ePals to learn about a new culture of their choice.
No comments:
Post a Comment