Reading Reflection #1

Reading Reflection #1

1. Starting the new journey to project based learning has to come with an open mind. The book gives specific thoughts to keep in mind when starting this journey and I feel it is good advice. All of the factors given are helping set students up to be more successful.  Focusing on instructional approaches and integrating technology are highly expected to this type of learning and this will expand the knowledge of both the teacher and the students.

2. There seem to be many benefits to project based learning. But overall, teachers and students benefit from this type of learning. While students are growing up in a generation of advanced technology, many teachers are still not up to speed on today's technology. While teachers are learning as they go, students are just expanding their knowledge and applying their skills to the real world.

3. Along with the benefits I wrote above, students gain many "extra learning" skills from project based learning. To name a few, (they are also listed on page 20) students develop good communication skills, good inquiry skills, learn to be flexible with their working hours and many more. All positive things for students to learn and help them grow.

4. Although there are many positives to project based learning, there are missing pieces as well. It is hard to wrap my head around the starting point of these projects. Is there an approach to introducing this type of learning? Technology varies from school to school and while some schools may have many resources to make the most out of this learning, what do other schools do that don't have that advantage? While there are many positives, I feel there are many questions to be asked as well.

5. New Technology High sounds very advanced. The main ideas and structure developed around this school seem to be beneficial and a good idea for students. However, I think basing a school strictly around research and technology takes away a lot of other benefits of school. I know this is the future, but I will always have a love for books and not being around technology all the time.