Slidedeck for METC presentation on project-based learning using our 6th grade urban adventure project as a model.

1. An Urban Adventure in Project-Based Learning
Robyn Williams and Patrick Woessner
METC 2015

2. Presentation Resources
• Slides:
• Project Website: http://bit.do/urbanadventure
• Contact info:
– rwilliams@micds.org
– pwoessner@micds.org

3. Background: From Field Trip to Project to
Project-Based Learning

4. Background: From Field Trip to Project to
Project-Based Learning

5. Background: From Field Trip to Project to
Project-Based Learning
Source: Built STL

6. Background: From Field Trip to Project to
Project-Based Learning

7. Essential Elements of PBL
• Driving Question
• Significant Content
• 21st Century
Competencies
• In-Depth Inquiry
• Need to Know
• Voice and Choice
• Critique and Revision
• Public Audience
Project Based Learning is a teaching method in which
students gain knowledge and skills by working for an
extended period of time to investigate and respond to a
complex question, problem, or challenge.
Visit bie.org to learn more

8. Driving Question
What do you see as a real and significant need for
the city of St. Louis 20 years from now, and how
can that need be met through urban renewal?

9. Significant Content
Interdisciplinary Approach with clearly identified
content knowledge and skills.
History
Science
Languages
English
Math
Technology
Urban
Adventure

10. Project Overview
Complete project details available at
http://urbanadventure2014.wikispaces.micds.org/

11. Voice and Choice
Student choice about the products to be created,
how they work, and how they use their time

12. Need to Know
Gain knowledge, understand concepts, and apply
skills to answer the Driving Question
The Pruitt-Igoe Myth: An Urban History

13. Engaging Experts: Real World Examples
Sustainable Construction Commercial Development
Urban Renewal

14. Real World Examples: STL Projects
MICDS STEM Building

15. Field Trip
See downtown first-hand
• Previewed the trip with a Google Earth Tour
• Took Metrolink from Brentwood station
• Lecture and walking tour with the Landmarks
Association

16. Technology Components

17. Work Schedule
• Special schedule for completing the project

18. Ah…Group Work

19. Assessment: Critique and Revision
Process is as important as product
• Requirements clearly articulated
• Rubrics describe levels of mastery
• Content-area experts for specific components
• Frequent formative assessment and feedback
• Individual vs. Group Grade

20. Final Project Examples

21. Final Project Examples

22. Questions?
• Slides:
• Project Website: http://bit.do/urbanadventure
• Contact info:
– rwilliams@micds.org
– pwoessner@micds.org

23. Summit for Transformative Learning
Hosted by MICDS, STLinSTL will feature three
conference strands:
• Amplifying STEM
• Engaging Students in Designing and Creating
• Understanding and Enhancing Learning
Visit stlinstl.org for more information