Reading Reflection #1

      As you start the journey through project based learning, you must keep in mind that today's students are up to the challenge, projects are worth the effort, students live and learn in the real world, and new contexts encourage the project approach.  The world is very digital now, and as teachers we need to take advantage of this!  There are so many new resources we can incorporate into our teaching every day.  Projects may take a little more effort and planning, but learning will become much more compassionate and personal for students.
      There are many benefits to project based learning.   The projects that can be done are limitless. Projects form the centerpiece of the curriculum instead of being just an extra activity that kids do.  The students learn from the research, experiments, and work that they do.
      Students will learn how to work well with others to collaborate ideas, and will gain teamwork and social skills.  They will learn how to use their time well since other group mates will rely on them.  Learning will become more fun because students will be actively participating.  Students will gain good inquiry skills by being actively involved in their own education.  Students also learn how to take charge of their own learning experience because the are taught how to.
      One issue that you will be faced with is explaining to parents how the curriculum will benefit their child.  Many parents will associate technology use with gaming, and non educational uses.  Another issue will be finding all of the resources needed to execute project based learning in an effective manner.  Some schools will not have the funding to buy computers for every classroom, so it will be difficult to perform project based learning without the resources.
      New Technology High is an example of a new technology model because technology is the basis of education at this particular school.  There is always a computer available for every student to use.  Technology at this school is constantly viewed as a tool rather than as a focus of learning.  Students are given multiple grades on assignments so that they can tell specifically which areas need improvement.