Will the Common Core State Standards create new opportunities for the authentic assessment that goes along with project-based learning? That's the hopeful conclusion of several administrators I interviewed for an article in this month's District Administration magazine. Check out "The Challenge of Assessing Project-Based Learning" to hear why school leaders think we're heading in a smarter direction when it comes to assessment. As one principal told me, "We pay attention to what we measure. If we can shift the measurement so
that students are better prepared and more engaged learners, then let’s
do it.”
Of course, there are many challenges ahead when it comes to developing the next generation of assessments. Breaking out of the bubble-test mentality isn't going to be easy. That's where the advance scouts for PBL can help lead the way, by sharing evidence of the deeper learning that comes with quality projects.
Of course, there are many challenges ahead when it comes to developing the next generation of assessments. Breaking out of the bubble-test mentality isn't going to be easy. That's where the advance scouts for PBL can help lead the way, by sharing evidence of the deeper learning that comes with quality projects.
3 comments:
Hello
It is a pleasure to read your article in "District
Administration." So refreshing to hear from someone who understands that PBL encompasses both immediate and long-term assessment. As a school library media specialist (33 years) I have played an integal role in helping teachers and students design and evaluate projects. I am not so sure that teachers have time to do all the legwork involved, to say nothing of teaching students how to evaluate and cite sources. Both types of information literacy (among others) are necessary as we strive to help our students become career and college-ready. Thanks for giving me this opportunity to share my thoughts.
Thanks, Candace. I wish more teachers would turn to their library/media specialists as PBL collaborators. As you wisely point out, information literacy skills are critically important yet too often overlooked.
I totally believe that PBL is the approach to making education relevant, exciting, and fun for both students and educators. I highly suggest taking a look at www.projectbasedlearning.com as a platform for group projects.
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