3 Graduate Credit Hours (ED500)
Course Description:
Engaging students in the classroom through projects that encourage critical thinking, and real-world application is the most authentic way to build student’s knowledge in subject matters. With project-based learning, students are involved for an expanded time frame to explore, develop and construct solutions to a problem involving real-world application and connection. The magnitude and extent of the project may vary, lasting a single class period or several weeks. The focus of PBL is collaboration, creativity and complex thinking.
Through-out this course, we will explore how project-based learning may be applied to your classroom and subject matter. Additionally, we will focus on techniques for building and implementing projects which interest your students and how to align them with your curriculum.
Required Text(s) and Other Materials:
All materials will be provided by the instructor in the Canvas classroom.
Learning Management System: Internet access, connection to Canvas learning management system portal.
Course Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
· Understand project-based learning instructional models
· Design and develop projects which meet the teacher’s specific curriculum requirements
· Develop ways to initiate project-based learning within the classroom
· Understand how to promote student success in project-based learning
· Design projects to integrate subject matter and even multiple subject areas
· Understand the academic benefits to project-based learning
Project Based Learning for Every Classroom
Mercedes Rasmussen, M.A, M.Ed., is a business teacher and DECA sponsor with 25 years of experience in the secondary classroom and 2 years of experience as an instructor at the University level in the area of Teacher Education. She believes in the power of building strong relationships with students and building a warm and welcoming classroom environment. In her free time Mercedes enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 sons. She is passionate about helping teachers enhance and build curriculum that engages students and helps to build excitement and confidence.