The Power of PBL Phipps CDC – Mike Gianakos : 1 Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning -

What is PBL? Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning

Project Based Learning In Project Based Learning (PBL), students go through an extended process of inquiry in response to a complex question, problem, or challenge. While allowing for student "voice and choice," rigorous projects are carefully planned, managed, and assessed to help students learn key academic content, practice 21st Century Skills (such as collaboration, communication & critical thinking), and create high-quality, authentic products & presentations.” Learning by Doing - Educating by Coaching Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning - 3

PBL Key Components What is the difference between a project and an activity? Community Assessment; what are your young people interested in learning ? This could be done a simple question (or series of questions) proposed to a group, or through a survey. Driving question; the driving question is your reason for creating the project. What is the group hoping to learn? Need to Know; what do we need to learn about? What do we need to research to make the project successful? Linking 21st Century Skills and Academics: The students will learn valuable skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, communication, etc. Culminating Event and Audience Reflection Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning - 4

Group Activity This short activity will have each group brainstorm a project based upon a topic provided by the facilitator. Each group will have… A project name A driving question Things that young people will need to learn and research Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning - 5

The Zombie Apocalypse Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning - 6

7 How do we create a sustainable food source during the Z.A.? READ/LITERATURE Max Brooks; Zombie Survival guide TRIPS neighborhood walk for the community assessment. A trip to Drew Gardens in West farms. WRITE The group will create lists throughout the project MEDIA/TECHNOLOGY The group will use computers to research zombies, gardening, creating green houses etc COMMUNITY The group will research the neighborhood observing safe and unsafe spaces, the population, and demographics, as well as community allies MATH measurments when designing safe houses, green houses, and gardens. creation of a tracking grid for food consumption. COLLEGE/CAREER NA ART Develop grids, maps, and communtiy plans.

Teaching vs Coaching While the expectations are that projects be youth created, youth driven, and youth lead, group facilitators are still responsible for managing the projects. We become coaches, setting expectations and boundaries while supporting the young people along the journey. As coaches we tap into the interest and the talent staying close enough to support, while maintaining enough distance as to not heavily influence the outcomes. All educators create fences both to protect young people and maintain focus, however a good coach knows when to open the gate or when to keep it locked. Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning - 8

Group Activity Design your own PBL: Zombies may not be an interest we all gravitate towards, as a group decide on a project you would like to do. Create a driving question Project description; what will be done? PBL Map Audience Culminating event Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning - 9

Group Share Gallery walks Austin’s Butterfly (If Time Allows) Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning

Resources Phipps Blog: Questions and Maybe Some Answers Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning

Thank you! Mike Gianakos Director of ESD and Phipps CDC Phipps CDC : Project Based Learning