Wow! The kids in the video were very motivated, focused, determined, and challenged. Wouldn't it be wonderful if all kids could be allowed a period to discover in schools across the nation? Would cures be found for diseases or leaps made in engineering?
*Knowledge is limited and sometimes lost, unless it is allowed to be explored!

This is better known as "Technology Education" where project based learning has been the model for the last 25 years since the shift from Industrial Arts. Check out the ITEAconnect.org or www.njtea.org. Math and Science teachers think this is a new idea.

Winthrop University, Junior
Rock Hill, SC

This website really shows the benefits of PBL and gives supporting information from schools that have implemented this technique. The students, teachers, and administrations commentary produce a more enticing view of this learning strategy and its benefits. I think that more schools should use this. If the school boards still believe in traditional learning methods, they could implement PBL gradually so that they can see how the students are better able to retain the information and then be able to compare it to regular testing and textbook based learning.

As a college student planning to become an elementary school teacher, this idea is exhilarating. This raises important ideas. I have tended to think that what I teach in my classroom, on a realistic level, will be limited and dulled by having to follow certain standards. However, there are schools out there that break those rules and teach through real experience. They focus on depth, not breadth. If public schools embrace this, that would be wonderful. Ideals and reality do not always match up, though, and I suspect that project-based learning requires more money for all the unique materials than normal classroom teaching.

We enjoyed watching this video and hearing about the wonderful experiences these students are having with hands on learning. The students are actively engaged through vicarious experiences which allow them to learn while also having fun.

i think this is an excellent way to assess students with special needs because it allows them to use their strengths and learn from their fellow classmates. PBL is great for all students

I think that Project Based Learning is a great idea. Students commented on how PBL allows them to learn from their experiences and through trial and error. I think that PBL can be more effective the traditional instruction is done so effectively, especially for special needs students. PBL can be more motivational that traditional learning as well because students are not just sitting in a chair listening to a lecture. Through this method of instruction, students can understand, apply, and retain information better and build skills, like critical thinking and communication.

I think that students who participate in PBL will value their work more, because it is relevant to them. I can only imagine how much the students building the electric cars learned through this project, and I’m sure that they will never forget this knowledge because it is interesting and exciting. Pursuing individual interests help students to excel. PBL helps build lifelong learning and generates motivation in all students because of the freedom of curriculum. This way of teaching is phenomenal.

Right on! We absolutely loved it. The innovative approach to teaching project based learning is awesome. While some critics raised the issue of assessment, i think this is an excellent time to use authentic assessments via ruberics! Kids will now be able to see that there is a reason they're in school and they will want to learn more... curiosity is the soul of genius, and project based learning breeds curiosity

I think project based learning is a great way for students to be involved hands-on and understand material concretely. Not only does this help students work with others and collaborate with projects, but it also helps with communication skills. Science and math seem to be a subject which is used often.

A negative about project based, is there seems to be computers and other forms of technology which is used, but developing good handwriting is a necessity for students to learn. Not all schools have the opportunity to even have one computer in the classroom. Using textbooks is important for students who have a different learning style. By incorporating some project based learning in the classroom with other types of learning, it will help all students who have different learning styles.

Project-Based Learning seems to be a wonderful way for students to learn. The students in the videos appear to be having a great time learning. I think that is important for students to enjoy their learning experiences and PBL is the way to achieve that enjoyment for most students.