Readiness for Teamwork

As I toured the Blogosphere reviewing several projects, I must say I felt overwhelmed. I was relieved to be granted permission, even encouraged, to join a well designed project that is already underway. Since I have not been present at this workshop, I suspect we will be joining a collaborative effort with colleagues on our first project. When I explored Krauss and Boss' blog, Reinventing Pbl, I was excited to find Project Based Learning on Edutopia where members can learn along with a group, online, discussing, and collaborating on the process, sharing ideas, not just viewing a finished project.  I truly see the need for project based learning to provide students, especially unmotivated students, with an authentic reason to learn. As also indicated, however, creating project based learning units is a time consuming endeavor. I have a need to restructure my interactions with my fellow colleagues as recommended. By nature and years of habit, I am reserved, but a very willing learner. During my journey at Harding University seeking my graduate degree in reading, Lit Lab, and Young Adult Author Series, as well as, my adventure with 21st Century learning, new doors have opened for my students as my teaching methods changed. Further experience with Huff’s 21Things continues to alter the mold of my teaching strategies. PBL requires a teacher willing to learn. That I am. Becoming more open with colleagues will take more work. But there again, I am open to anything that opens new opportunities for my students.

Where Am I Starting?

As I begin my journey through Suzie Boss and Jane Krauss’, Reinventing Project-Based Learning, I realize I have not set aside the time to reflect on my learning through the last three years of graduate classes and professional development. Time is a major factor, of course, as it will be a factor as we begin our journey into project based learning. During our previous school year my students and I played with a variety of technology tools, integrating them into our literacy learning. Though we called our units “projects” they were in truth, literacy units incorporating technology tools. Most students loved the new tools, embracing the new power they felt when posting on our class blog or wiki for the first time. The technology tools opened the door to the 21st Century and served as motivators. However, I have not yet grasped the ability or confidence to transform my classroom into a project based learning center. The literacy units, technology tools, and the understanding of the need for authentic real life experiences are all present. Now, how do I turn this knowledge into project based learning?