“Students, working both individually and cooperatively, feel empowered when they use effective work habits and apply critical thinking to solve problems by finding or creating solutions in relevant projects. In this productive work, students learn and/or strengthen their work habits, their critical thinking skills, and their productivity. Throughout this process, students are learning new knowledge, skills and positive attitudes.”
-Thomas (2000)
One of the essential competencies of a teacher is that “teachers should have the ability to use problem solving, question-response, discussion, brainstorming and projects during their lessons” (Turkish Ministry of Education Commission, 2002). It is being proposed that the utilization of proficient Teaching methods in the different educational topics will develop and scaffold critical thinking skills in the students. One of the ways that can be used to improve students’ critical thinking outlook is Project-Based Learning (PBL).
As to Thomas (2000), Projects are sophisticated assignments which are based on striking questions and meaningful problems, incorporating pupils in problem solving, decision making, searching processes, and giving opportunity to pupils to work collaboratively for a long period, concluding with realistic product presentations. Project-Based learning is a Student-Centered instructional model which develops the content area knowledge and skill of student through extended task that promotes student inquisition and genuine demonstration. PBL is also driven by Curriculum-Framing Question that promotes Higher-Order thinking skill. Project-based learning enables students to make decisions which will have direct impact on their learning processes, develop their problem-solving skills and provides deeper learning while they are tackling various idea and concepts (Rooney, 1996). Project-Based Learning goes beyond provoking student interest and learning progress. By means of project-based learning in teacher training courses, it is possible to develop social skills and high level thinking skills of teacher, and deep understanding of teaching a subject that has been determined by teacher. PBL ensure the students and also the teachers to be life long learners.
During High school era (2 years ago), teachers of ALL subjects always gave us a lot of schemes to do which allot our time and energy so much! I wonder if they are truly sensible enough. I used to think that they are just activities to proliferate our grades and they are just requirement that need to be passed. But as constant learning in College happened especially in Digital Technology subject, I realized that these projects are Project-Based Learning that promotes higher order thinking skill specifically critical thinking. These are projects that enhance the learning progress in cognitive, affective and psychomotor domain. PBL is an essential tool for problem-solving case and thinking at all levels.
The Role of Project-Based Learning is important because it involves student collaboration in promoting positive interaction to each other to develop individual accountability. Projects also give analysis on the real-world situations allowing students to solve the Curriculum-framing questions through authentic demonstrations. PBL also support the teacher and student rapport to each other thru sharing of diverse perspective of different problems.
Project Based Learning had a Positive influence on the students thinking and skill development. Through the 21st century Skill there is so much difference between the Traditional Instruction and Project Based Learning. Based on Content in the traditional instruction there is only Knowledge of facts but as to PBL there is comprehension of concept and principles. On the Teachers’ role on traditional s/he serve s lecturer, expert guide and director of instruction while in PBL s/he was a resource provider and a mentor. Through the use of Technology in Traditional it is always administered by teachers while in PBL it is central, integral and directed by students. Lastly for students’ role in PBL they carry out self-directed experiences, discover, integrate and present ideas, and communicate, show affect. Produce and take responsibility while in traditional instruction the student carry out instructions, memorize and repeat facts, listen, behave, and speak only when spoken to.
As for constant learning and as I can walk to the state of teaching, I will be the Positive Bulopcious Life-long learner plus teacher who always,
-identify the student NEEDS
-determine the APPROIRIATE TEACHING METHOD for all thinking levels
-demonstrate INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES
-use CURRICULUM-FRAMING QUESTION in ASSESSing student learning
-utilize PROJECT-BASED LEARNING
-Glorify GOD always!
“In Domino Confido”
LAUS DEO SEMPER
GONZALES, MARY ROAXANNE T.
E-EE3/EDIGITECH/W/11.00AM-2.00PM
