Category: Project Based Learning

The importance of incorporating exponential learning in the curriculum

Exponential learning is an essential method of education, which provides students with the first-hand experience in learning. The learning process involves acquiring knowledge through internships, studies abroad, field trips, service-learning projects, and field researches. The method helps the students to build an understanding of the real world along with qualities like community building and engaging with subject matter experts & citizens involved in it.

This article is based on the experience gained by involving students in a community-related issue and the knowledge gained by them while interacting with the stakeholders. The students were divided into smaller groups to come up with a research paper with each group working out the solutions of each stakeholder. Important takeaways from the activity mentioned above are as follows.

Essential questions and its importance

The activity began with a critical issue and the subsequent search for answers from different stakeholders. Multiple perspectives to the crucial question were a great learning ground for students who were otherwise prejudiced about the entire issue.

Student-centred learning

Students were involved in activities that included fieldwork to gather and test scientific data, explore sources like local museums and touring with experts and locals to critical locations. The students then conduct interviews with stakeholders and draft research papers. The final stage of the course was a workshop model where students were involved in additional discussions, and the educators served as only coaches.

Building relationships with community

The course provided the students with the opportunity to engage with knowledgeable scientists, environmental activists, and residents to perfectly frame their research and conclusions. The activity helped in building a compassionate relationship with the stakeholders making the entire course a transformational one for the participating students.

The above three benefits of exponential learning justify its importance in building a bunch of learners who are excited and motivated.

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Five tips for incorporating project-based learning into math classes

Although Project-based learning is gaining on-trend in the school system, math has been lagging far behind in introducing the concept in its learning. Authors of “Project-based learning in the Math Classroom: Grades 6-10”, Norfar and Chris Fancher have come up with five classroom-tested strategies that could facilitate PBL in math classes.

Clearing the math myth

While many educators worry about the enormous time taken away by the PBL, Fancher and Norfar insist on making the students explain how they solved the problems. PBL inspires the students to reveal their thinking and support them to solve problems boldly.

Smart projects

The authors encourage teachers to take up projects that involve the possibility of inquiries. The word problems in the textbooks, the community problems at your schools, challenges faced by the ones who use math in their daily lives or other subject educators that require math are the perfect sources for PBL math projects.

Start small

It is always better to start doing small tasks that require inquiry rather than more extensive projects. Solving more minor problems allows students to focus on specific standards at lesser times.

Build effective strategies

The authors encourage the educators to motivate students to work as teams, interview experts or take part in Socratic seminars to discuss math concepts in detail. This activity enhances curiosity and will help the student in taking math concepts seriously.

Help students develop confidence

PBL methods in math can take time to be successful, but it can help students to become successful problem solvers. It is equally essential for educators to be right critics and help them to improve their projects.

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