Project+Based+Learning

NETS T 1.a,c and 2.a,b,c,d

I use project based learning in a small and simplified way for learning in some of my health classes. Occassionally, I do use small collaborative groups to highlight short sections of a unit and then teach what they have learned to the rest of the class. For example, when I teach the different Body Systems Unit, one group will be assigned to cover the Circulatory System, another group will cover the Respiratory System, and so on. Students primarily use their textbooks for their research although, a few groups will use the computer lab. I do like these types of student projects, but they almost always try to get me to do some of the work for them, or ask questions that they could easily find the answers to on the internet. That's one of the downsides to this project. Another is that one or more groups may not do an adequate job and then I have to spend more time re-teaching the material that the class is missing out on. So sometimes the amount of time that a project like this can take up, can also take even more time because I have to re-teach it. Hopefully, sooner than later, our school will have the technology and a reduced filter system so that some of these tools can be utilized. I think using a graphic organizer like Mind42, or a wiki would be a great way to start incorporating project based learning into my health classes. I think they would really enhance the Body Systems Unit I teach.