Project Based Learning

Next year, the math curriculum in Georgia is changing to an integrated approach. We are transitioning to a high school curriculum that is very different from the traditional Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, and Algebra 3. The courses will be called Math 1, Math 2, Math 3 and Math 4. While these courses not only combine a variety of what was seen as traditional course (i.e. Math 1 will have Algebra 2 topics, Geometry, and Statistics) the teacher’s role is changing to become more of a facilitator. The students will also be involved in a more project based approach to learning. As a result of this transition, I have become interested in the topic of project based learning to not only increase my understanding of the topic but also to begin planning ways to use this model with my special education students. I recently came across an excerpt from a new book Reinventing Project-Based Learning Your Field Guide to Real-World Projects in the Digital Age by Suzie Boss and Jane Krauss. This excerpt includes not only an introduction to the book but also an outline of the chapters. It approaches project based learning and the integration of technology as well. Today’s students are hungry for this type of approach to learning. As teachers we are long over due to change our approach to teaching and begin to reach our students in the technology based world in which they live. The types of technology addressed range from social bookmarking, wikis, screen casting, web 2.0 and podcasting to name a few. I am going to recommend this book to our Area Lead Teacher as a possible book study for a staff development course at our school.