2. Project-Based Learning, or PBL, is a dynamic
approach to teaching in which students work
in teams to experience and explore real-
world problems, questions, issues, and
challenges through active and engaged
learning.
4. Through active learning, students gain 21st
Century Skills such as:
◦ Accessing and Analyzing Information
◦ Agility and Adaptability
◦ Collaboration across Networks and
Leading by Influence
◦ Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
◦ Curiosity and Imagination
◦ Effective Oral and Written Communication
◦ Initiative and Entrepreneurialism
5. A high school team of students will
immerse in a real-world project.
Their challenge: How to make the local
bank branch more environmentally
sustainable while staying within a
budget?
6. They will go from producing a spreadsheet
to using a program called SketchUp, also
using Skype to consult with experts outside
of the classroom
When a student was asked how he learned
to use SketchUp he simply replied “Just by
using it.”
In PBL, that’s exactly how technology
integration should happen.
7. This wasn’t a “SketchUp” project. It was a
challenge that required problem-solving
and connected students with people beyond
the classroom.
Students chose to use online modeling
software because 3-D graphics offered a
way to make their thinking visible.
Technology was integrated because it
helped students meet their project goals.
8. SketchUp
◦ Students use this program to create simple, but detailed 3D
models of the redesigned exterior of a building
◦ Similar to an Excel or a PowerPoint project
◦ http://www.sketchup.com/industries/education.html
Skype in the Classroom
◦ Students use Skype to connect to the world. More specifically for
this example, they could connect to content experts outside of the
school
◦ https://education.skype.com/
Padlet
◦ Students can stick virtual “sticky notes” to a “wall” (their class’s
personally website to share their ideas) for everyone to see
◦ http://padlet.com/
