Problem+Based+Learning


 * Project Based Learning** (also Problem Based Learning) allows for personalisation and inquiry. Strategies to start a project include:
 * 1) Using a KWL chart (What I **Know**, What I **Want** to Know and What I **Learnt**) is a popular way to start projects. Silvia Rosenthal Tolisano, who writes the Langwitches Blog, suggests upgrading the KWL chart to the 21st Century by adding 'H', 'A' and 'Q'. That is, **How** will I find out?, What **Action** will I take? and What new **Questions**do I have?
 * 2) Ask a series of directed questions and then an open-ended question that allows students to reflect and create a product that demonstrates their learning. This is an excellent page on - Directed and Open Ended Questions for Project Based Learning from the Instructional Organizer for PBL. This is an example of how I used this strategy for a Year 7 Science unit on the Solar System.


 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/PBL.jpg width="258" height="60"]] || Project Based Learning is as site for middle and high school teachers to develop PBL strategies. ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/cases_online.jpg]] || Cases Online is a collection of inquiry-based lessons to engage exploring the science behind real-world problems. Promotes self-directed and life-long learners, critical thinkers and keen problem solvers. Cases are grounded in Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and Investigative Case-Based Learning (ICBL). ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/CBL.jpg width="259" height="57"]] || Challenge Based Learning is the Apple version of PBL, with the extra step of a meaningful action as part of the project. At the time of writing they have two themes: Identity and Sustainability as examples of CBL. The Sustainability Challenge is suitable for middle years science and includes modules of Energy, Food, Water and Air. ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/engineers_week.jpg width="264" height="74"]] || Discover Engineering lets your students discover engineering in some very exciting and engaging ways. From skateboards to roller coasters, design your own plane or make your own phonograph, the activities and videos are well produced and kid-friendly. ||
 * [[image:Intel.jpg width="263" height="68"]] || INTEL sponsor the "Intel International Science and Engineering Fair", the world's largest pre-college science competition where young scientists compete for over USD 4 million in awards and scholarships. ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/science_box.jpg width="93" height="70" align="right"]] || My Science Box contains complete, scaffolded lesson plans to teach a 4-6 week middle school science unit through activities, projects, and field trips. ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/PBSteachers.jpg width="264" height="88"]] || PBS STEM Education Resources Center contains engaging lessons and activities based around the award-winning PBS videos. Also PBS Teachershas resources that can be searched by grade level and curriculum area. Teachers can create an online classroom. ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/AplusPhysics.jpg width="258" height="47"]] || Physics Online has a range of project ideas from building bridges to electronics projects. ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/STEM.jpg width="266" height="85"]] || Siemens Discovery STEM Academy has a vast amount of lessons, multimedia and activities, along with webinars, that are some of the finest for both student learning and teacher professional development. ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/Siemens.jpg width="274" height="120"]] || Siemens We Can Change The World Challenge is loaded with resources, standards, and ideas. Either compete or just use the resources that are provided. ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/Jason.jpg width="278" height="75"]] || The Jason Project - Free digital curricula filled with multi-media, simulations, readings, class activities, and projects! Check out that roller coaster simulation just to name one. ||
 * [[image:digitaltoolbox/young_scienctist_challenge.jpg width="120" height="130" align="left"]] || Young Scientists Challenge is a great resource for students in K-8. Lessons, multi-media, and other materials that can be incorporated into PBL units ||