The PBL Toolkit will never by “finished.” There are always new developments in education, especially with technology and curriculum. This online toolkit plans to reflect those changes by revising information and uploading new content. Education is a field that requires one to stay current with the latest trends and advancements. I cannot imagine a teacher ever being bored with their career. We are constantly on the cusp of something new. Change can also be overwhelming. The PBL Toolkit aims to provide guidance and support for teachers who decide to embrace those changes. Together, we can embark on a journey and experience new possibilities that keep students motivated and excited.
I began the PBL Toolkit during my four-month residency in Finland as part of the Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program. The program is open to current full-time elementary through high school teachers, guidance counselors, curriculum specialists, Talented and Gifted coordinators, Special Education coordinators, and media specialists/librarians. I urge interested educators to apply. There is a lot to gain from becoming a Fulbright Distinguished Teacher:
Every Fulbright teacher must complete an inquiry project based on his or her experience abroad. The project should encourage cross-cultural dialogue, demonstrate relevance to education in the grantee’s host country; and reflect activities undertaken as part of the Fulbright program. My inquiry project investigated how Finnish schools use inquiry-based learning to enrich students’ use of 21st century skills. I specifically researched and observed best practices of PBL: interdisciplinary teaching, cooperative learning, and the strategic use of technology. Why Finland?
The website, Phenomenal Education says that phenomenon-based teaching uses the natural curiosity of children to learn in a holistic and authentic context. Holistic real-world phenomena provide the motivating starting point for learning, instead of traditional school subjects. This enables students to practice critical thinking, creativity, innovation, teamwork, and communication. My research efforts in Finland helped me to formulate an understanding of the online platforms and instructional strategies that support a globally aware classroom. The PBL Toolkit attempts to share what I learned from Finland. I hope you find the website to be much more than information and links. My goal is for the toolkit to be an inspiration. You can implement PBL! The skills you develop when learning about, planning for, and experiencing a PBL unit will transfer to other areas of your teaching. Integrating the elements of PBL on a regular basis will create a classroom environment that supports the whole child. |
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