"This module has made me think about my role as an instructional designer in the following ways..."
I'll be the first to admit that project-based learning (PBL) is an afterthought for me. As a teacher of mathematics, I'm very proud of our methods of instruction. In fact, we all probably swear by the same tried-and-true methods that our teacher's teachers taught.
However, Module 1 has illuminated that archaic way of thinking. At a time where we are struggling to keep up with 21st century technology and innovations, PBL seems almost necessary.
Why would I not want my students to have exposure to skills vital to today? PBL is a way to get the students to become their own educators. To an extent, it's already the case, but PBL accents their critical thinking, technology, and work environment skills in a way that traditional teaching methods cannot.
I have to become a facilitator for my students. They need to collaborate together, whether it's through a class/project wiki or interactive field trips to the McWane Center. PBL allows them to do this.
I must also accommodate varying needs. Different levels of cognitive function affect behavior, sociability, and performance. Therefore, students need a chance to experience all these while having an opportunity to shine in maybe two or three facets.
Having students be at the center of learning gives them something at stake. Whether it's an innate feeling of ownership, motivation for being self-directed, etc., these benefits outweigh any disadvantages of PBL.
And that's something that three weeks ago I just wouldn't have believed.
- Jordan
