Project-Based Learning
(PBL) is an instructional approach where traditional, direct classroom instruction and tests are replaced by authentic, often interdisciplinary projects, usually designed by the student with guidance from instructors/coaches, addressing real-world problems as the assessment instead of a test. It also is closely related to deeper learning, challenge-based learning, interest-based learning and more.
Design-Focused University–The Best Thing Since French Fries (Which Are Also Belgian)
A recent trip to Europe took Tom to Howest, a University that’s known for their approach to learning and research and close collaboration with industry and the social sector. Learn how Howest and MyMachine are making design thinking as common in Belgian schools as Frites are on dinner tables
New from Buck Institute: 6 Videos of PBL Units in Action
By John Larmer. The Buck Institute is using videos of HQPBL to help persuade and instruct others about the power of high quality project-based learning.
ImBlaze: Igniting Powerful Real-World Learning Experiences
There is a growing national momentum behind having students learn in contexts and at times outside of the traditional school day. This new tool from Big Picture Learning provides a valuable approach for managing these types of experiences.
What’s Up With All the Design-Focused Schools?
Is the focus on design in schools a fad, a trend or something else? In this episode of the podcast, Tom and Emily explore the rise in popularity of design-focused schools.
Preparing Students for Career Success
By: Tyler Fugazzie. Many students don’t feel prepared for the working world. Students who do feel prepared for work may be less prepared than they realize. Or they may be prepared for work that no longer exists. This post explores ways to address these challenges.
Demystifying Nuance: Designing for Learning Outcomes
Dr. Tyler S. Thigpen. Today, more and more educators are committing themselves to designing learning environments that cultivate a broader, more holistic set of student outcomes. But identifying learning outcomes isn't enough. A students goals and challenges will impact each outcome in different ways.
Teaching Students How to Bring Their Dreams to Life
By: Piet Grymonprez. Young children have a strong capacity for 'having a go'. How can we foster the capacity to imagine, dream and try in students? MyMachine is working to do just that. They are helping bring student dreams to life.
The Future of Learner Experience (LX)
Our team recently got together with innovative educators and brilliant learners to discuss the future of learner experiences. Learning surrounds us. As we walked and talked, we uncovered that the future of LX is now.
Project Based Learning is a Spectrum
The difference between “doing projects” (what the BIE refers to as “dessert projects”) and implementing project based learning is not binary - it’s a spectrum. Here, we explore the grey are in between.
How Can Children Aspire to Careers They Don’t Know Exist?
By: Ed Hidalgo. By connecting exciting career options to learning, class work becomes more valuable, reinforcing the idea that school is a path to something that can be fun and rewarding. This district doesn't think career exploration is a "big kid only" topic.