Vegas PBS Teacher Professional Development
STEM, Creativity & Engaging Instruction

Project Based Learning Techniques

One challenge for teachers trying to incorporate Project Based Learning (PBL) strategies into their classroom is having the knowledge to implement effectively. Our Project Based Learning Techniques course will help guide you through the process of setting up beneficial learning environments. We cover theories behind PBL, as well as planning activities, assessment, feedback, and reflection strategies. By taking our course, you’ll discover the fascinating world of PBL by using hands-on and engaging learning techniques.

Course details+

One challenge for teachers trying to incorporate Project Based Learning (PBL) strategies into their classroom is having the knowledge to implement effectively. Our Project Based Learning Techniques course will help guide you through the process of setting up beneficial learning environments. We cover theories behind PBL, as well as planning activities, assessment, feedback, and reflection strategies. By taking our course, you’ll discover the fascinating world of PBL by using hands-on and engaging learning techniques.

After completing this course, you should be able to:

  • Identify how to establish inquiry, creativity, and collaboration skills
  • Recall how to create projects and how to engage students
  • Recognize techniques used for assessments and feedback
  • Describe ways to effectively teach content and how to reflect on what has been taught
Syllabus & lessons+

Module 1 - Risk Taking and Collaboration Skills

Module 2 - Creating Your Project Based Learning Vision

Module 3 - Assessment and Feedback

Module 4 - Guarantee Understanding and Reflection

Project Based Learning Techniques Module 1

Risk Taking and Collaboration Skills

Children’s brains are wired for creativity. In order to promote inquiry and to think outside the box, you must be willing to take some risks. The first module of our course discusses ways to establish a culture of creativity and ways to promote collaboration skills with both teachers and peers.

  • Simple but Not Too Simple
  • Schools Kill Creativity
  • Establish a Culture of Inquiry and Creativity
  • Teaching Collaboration Skills
  • Friction is Key

Project Based Learning Techniques Module 2

Creating Your Project Based Learning Vision

Knowing what content to focus on during project based learning can be a challenge. This module discusses the basis of High Impact Content and how it lends itself to overall student success. We’ll also describe how to create a vision for your project that is realistic, achievable, and engaging for students.

  • Project Based Learning Worthy Content
  • Create a Vision for Your Project
  • Projects vs. Project Based Learning
  • Wrap the Learning in Inquiry
  • Students Need Engaging Context for Their Work

Project Based Learning Techniques Module 3

Assessment and Feedback

Once you’ve implemented PBL content, you’ll need a way to track student progress and assess overall learning. This module discusses how to track if individual students have developed skills and demonstrate understanding of content. We’ll also describe ways to give appropriate student feedback that will continue to facilitate learning.

  • Shift the Ownership of Assessment
  • Facilitate a Progress Assessment Tool
  • Student Learning
  • Conferencing and Feedback

Project Based Learning Techniques Module 4

Guarantee Understanding and Reflection

Our last module helps guide you in creating an environment that is centered on the learner. We’ll discuss the need for summative assessments, proper reflection, and publishing techniques.

  • Integrate Direct Instruction as Necessary
  • Guarantee Understanding
  • Summative Assessments
  • Finish Off Your Project in Style
  • Reflection and Publishing
Instructor+

Tricia Seymour

Tricia has worked in the education field for over 35 years, as well as online education for 15 years. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, a PhD in Counseling Psychology and a Doctorate of Education in Online Education & Leadership from the American College of Education. She has been an adjunct instructor, both online and in-person in the fields of psychology & sociology.

Prerequisites+

No prerequisites required.

Instructional materials+

All materials included in course.

System requirements+

Internet Connection

  • Broadband or High-Speed - DSL, Cable, and Wireless Connections

*Dial-Up internet connections will result in a diminished online experience. Classroom pages may load slowly and viewing large audio and video files may not be possible.

Hardware Requirements

  • Processor - 2GHz Processor or Higher
  • Memory - 1 GB RAM Minimum Recommended

PC Software Requirements

  • Operating Systems - Windows 10 or higher
  • Microsoft Office 2019 or higher. Also, you could use a general Word Processing application to save and open Microsoft Office formats (.doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .ppt, .pptx)
  • Internet Browsers - Google Chrome is highly recommended
  • Cookies MUST be enabled
  • Pop-ups MUST be allowed (Pop-up Blocker disabled)
  • The Kindle Reader App or VitalSource Bookshelf App are needed for many of our courses (No special equipment needed. This can be downloaded for FREE onto your computer.)
  • PowerPoint Viewer (if you do not have PowerPoint)
  • Adobe PDF Reader
  • QuickTime, Windows Media Player &/or Real Player

MAC Software Requirements

  • Operating Systems - Mac OS version 11 or higher
  • Mac office programs or a Word Processing application to save and open Microsoft Office formats (.doc, .docx, .xls, .xlsx, .ppt, .pptx)
  • Internet Browsers - Google Chrome is highly recommended
  • Cookies MUST be enabled
  • Pop-ups MUST be allowed (Pop-up Blocker disabled)
  • The Amazon Kindle Reader App or VitalSource Bookshelf App are needed for many of our courses (No special equipment needed. This can be downloaded for FREE onto your computer.)
  • PowerPoint Viewer (if you do not have PowerPoint)
  • Adobe PDF Reader
  • Apple QuickTime Media Player

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