Can students do project-based learning in an online and blended learning environment? The answer to that is an unequivocal yes! How would you like to have your online students build local skate board parks, successfully make environmental suggestions to the U.S. State Department on getting rid of electronic waste, and help clean up a contaminated lake?
This is possible if students are given the proper training or preparation; the projects are well organized, and involve the outside world whenever possible. The key is to scaffold your assignments by starting small and building into a major project.
When doing an assignment or a PBL class, students need to first understand what PBL is all about and how to effectively use the simple tools of technology so that it is a seamless project as they get the job done. It is important to provide students with the opportunity to pursue advanced knowledge on a topic of global interest to them.
During the semester students should be expected to develop and meet the minimum requirements of using the tools of the computer, high level research work, writing skills, and proper presentations skills. The students will normally work independently or in small groups and consult with their teacher for guidance. The teacher will give directions, monitor, and evaluate students' topic of study by the use of rubrics.
During the project students must maintain an online asynchronous schedule (discussion and posting areas) and synchronously report to the supervising teacher (at least once each week) for assistance or presentations. It is important to stress that out-of-school research is considered homework and will not substitute for just showing up in class.
As a final part of the project students are required to provide the coordinator and/or committee of interested or qualified persons with a written report and an oral presentation of the study that will be evaluated and put into action.
Successful online/blended project-based learning is an effective and interesting way to extend problem solving and logic skills by applying the strategies and processes of social, political and economic modeling to real environmental. It helps a student understand current world/local problems and increases the confidence of a student to using technology-based research skills.
This experience can help the student develop the skills to become a project-based learner.
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Click on these words to watch the development of a global studies project |