Project-based learning is a student-centered approach that emphasizes hands-on, active learning. Students work independently or collaboratively to investigate an authentic problem, question, or challenge and produce a tangible product or presentation. Incorporating technology allows students to effectively use tools like video cameras, presentation software, and podcasts to support their research and presentations. When implementing project-based learning, teachers take on a facilitator role and must consider how technology can support individual, pair, and group work while also preparing students to use technologies appropriately and productively.

1. Project-Based Learning & TechnologyGroup 08: Cassandra Singleton & Natayle Brown

2. What is Project Based Learning?The primary focus of project-based learning is to teach students the skills necessary for everyday situations. Students are more deeper engaged to research and find idealistic solutions.Incorporating technology into classroom projects ensures that our students can use technology effectively and productively.

3. Project-Based Learning Cont.Project-based learning is centered around classroom activity that emphasizes learning activities which are interdisciplinary and student focused. This approach is generally less structured than traditional teacher-led classroom activities. Students must organize their own work and must manage their own time. Within the project-based learning style, students are able to collaborate by working together. The collaboration between students is what makes this style of learning differ from the traditional inquiry based activities.

4. How does it work?Students are able to form their own investigation which in turn allows students to develop valuable research skills. The students engage in problem solving, decision making and investigating activities. Students can work in groups or by themselves to come up with ideas and realistic solutions.This still includes teacher facilitation, but not as much teacher direction as in traditional instruction. The main focus of this form of learning is to drive students to encounter the core concepts and principles of a subject hands on.

5. Teacher Planning for IntegrationWhen students are able to take responsibility for their learning, their self esteem soars. Project-based learning helps to create better work habits and attitudes in the learning process. Although students work in groups during project-based learning, they become more independent because they are receiving little instruction from the teacher. Students will begin to learn skills that are essential in higher education and skills that strengthen their ability to expand their minds. Students will find better solutions to problems by utilizing their critical thinking skills.www.heyden-house.co.za

6. Integration Cont.There are several features that assist in the direction of project-based instruction within a classroom. It is important to provide students with a specific focus throughout the project that enables them to make connections withreal life experiences or situations. It will be most beneficial to have a specific focus relevant to the particular age group.

7. Planning for the EducatorTeachers decide on what instructional strategies to demonstrate and how to carry them out. When teachers create an instructional design for technology integration, they need to consider the characteristics of their topic and the needs of their students as well.

8. Questions to Considerwww.educatednation.comA few questions that teachers must ask themselves while planning are things like:Should students work individually, in pairs, small groups, or as a whole?

9. How can technology support these methods?

10. How can I prepare the students to use these technologies?CollaborationCollaboration is a key element of project-based learning. It helps to promote independent learning which in turn helps promote higher order thinking skills. The main focus is for the students to gain information through the application of several technologies including computer programs, audio visual equipment and real life research to ensure that the full experience of the project is gained. The ultimate goal is to answer a specific question with the collaboration of others.

11. National Educational Technology Standards (NETs)According to the most recent NETs, students must effectively incorporate technology in order to:Demonstrate creativity and innovation.

12. Communicate and collaborate.

13. Gather, evaluate, and use information.

14. Critically think, solve problems, and make decisions.

15. Understand ethics and responsibility in technology.

16. Understand and use technology systems.Technology & Project-Based LearningWhen students use technology as a tool to communicate with others, they must transmit the information gathered and they must make decisions on how to obtain and display this information. Technology makes it possible for students to think actively about the choices they make and what they execute. The instructors role in PBL is that of a facilitator.

17. Student BenefitsProject based technology can reach out and accommodate many different types of learners. It can especially engage those who are strong auditory, visual, or kinesthetic learners; as seeing, hearing, and doing are the main components of classroom projects.

18. Benefits Cont.When students are able to take responsibility for their learning their self esteem soars. Project-based learning helps to create better work habits and attitudes in the learning process.

19. Students will begin to learn skills that are essential in higher education and skills that strengthen their ability to expand their minds. Students will find better solutions to problems by utilizing their critical thinking skills.

20. Although students work in groups during project-based learning, they become more independent because they are receiving little instruction from the teacher. TYPES OF MULTIMEDIA & TECHNOLOGIESComputer software programs such as Inspiration, Spreadsheet, PowerPoint and Word Processors.

21. Internet technologies such as Blogs, Wikis, & Social Networking.

22. Digital cameras, video cameras, printers, scanners, etc.

23. Auditory programs such as Garageband, Audacity, and Podcasts. SoftwareInspiration: Visual mapping program for brainstorming, developing and organizing ideas, and presenting information.

24. Video CamerasStudents can effectively incorporate video cameras into project-based learning to become more familiar with the technology. They can practice responsibilities such as writing movie scripts, creating personal interviews, movies, or documentaries, and editing them for presentation.

25. PowerPointPowerPoint is a presentation program that allows users to organize ideas and information into a creative and professional presentation. Teachers can use PowerPoint to present a class lecture, and students can use PowerPoint to summarize research.

26. PodcastingPodcasts are audio broadcasts that are available for playback on computers and digital mp3 players. Teachers can use Podcasts regularly in the classroom for reviews or missed lectures, and students can use Podcasts creatively for class assignments and presentations.