Implementing Project-Based Learning. Suzie Boss
Solutions for Digital Learner–Centered Classrooms
Implementing
Project-Based
Learning
Suzie Boss
Copyright © 2015 by Solution Tree Press
All rights reserved, including the right of reproduction of this book in whole or in part in any form.
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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Boss, Suzie.
Implementing project-based learning / by Suzie Boss.
pages cm
Includes bibliographical references.
ISBN 978-1-942496-11-3 (perfect bound) 1. Project method in teaching.
I. Title.
LB1027.43.B64 2015
371.3’6--dc23
2015009170
Solution Tree Jeffrey C. Jones, CEO Edmund M. Ackerman, President
Solution Tree Press President: Douglas M. Rife Associate Acquisitions Editor: Kari Gillesse Editorial Director: Lesley Bolton Managing Production Editor: Caroline Weiss Copy Chief: Sarah Payne-Mills Copy Editor: Jessi Finn Proofreader: Elisabeth Abrams Text Designer: Rachel Smith Cover Designer: Rian Anderson
Acknowledgments
Sincere thanks to the teachers who took time to unpack their thinking about project-based learning. Their examples and insights are invaluable for helping us understand how to design projects that engage and challenge digital-age learners.
In particular, I’d like to thank Armin Heurich, Eric Clause, Gail Shatkus, Heather Wolpert-Gawron, Mike Wagner, and Raleigh Werberger. Robert Kolvoord and Stewart Kirkpatrick offered important insights about the value of geospatial thinking. Harshil Parikh helped me understand the importance of data literacy for 21st century learners.
To the team at Solution Tree, thank you for the invitation to contribute to this series.
Visit go.solution-tree.com/technology to access materials related to this book.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: A Strong Foundation—and Then Some
Chapter 2: Geoliteracy Projects: Making Global Connections
How to Get Started With Geoliteracy Projects
Chapter 3: Data Literacy Projects: Understanding Big Data
How to Get Started With Data Literacy Projects
Chapter 4: Entrepreneurship and Innovation Projects: Understanding the Business World
Shark Tank
Vog Scrubber
How to Get Started With Entrepreneurship and Innovation Projects
Chapter 5: Media Literacy Projects: Becoming Savvier Consumers and Creators of Media
How to Get Started With Media Literacy Projects
Chapter 6: Storytelling Projects: Cultivating a Strategic Tool
How to Get Started With Storytelling Projects
Chapter 7: Project-Based Learning Challenges
What About Content Coverage?
How Do We Connect With Outside
Experts? How Do We Manage the Messy Learning That Happens in PBL?
What Does Assessment Look Like in PBL?
Takeaways and Reflections
PBL Resources
Books
Online Resources
Project Libraries
About the Author
Suzie Boss is a writer and educational consultant who focuses on the power of teaching and learning to transform communities. She has developed programs for nonprofit organizations that teach youth and adults how to improve their communities with innovative, sustainable solutions. She has also introduced project-based learning (PBL) strategies to after-school providers to enrich the experiences of youth at risk.
She is a member of the National Faculty of the Buck Institute for Education, an international resource for best practices in PBL. She is a frequent conference presenter and consults with schools around the globe interested in shifting from traditional instruction to technology-rich, project-based learning. She has also worked with educators online, facilitating webinars and extending professional development events.
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