Project-Based Learning Too Hard for Teachers?

"There's a reason teachers have been taught for 75 years to do projects and they don’t do them," says University of Virginia professor Daniel Willingham in the EdWeek article "Backers of '21st Century Skills' Take Flak."

That reason he's alluding to? Difficulty.

And yet, a host of research validates teachers who've artfully and effectively taken on this 75-year reigning challenge. Add to that evidence problem-based learning educator and advocate Peggy Healy Stearns, who talked to us about real teachers teaching content and 21st century skills—and getting results with problem-based learning.

Hear Peggy explain how teachers can "go beyond testing" with project-based learning but still stay grounded in the realities of state assessments.

Monday, March 16, 2009, 2:30-3:30 p.m.  
3304, Beyond Testing: Projects That Nurture Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Collaboration

This lecture and multimedia presentation will demonstrate how project-based learning and open-ended technology tools help students go beyond testing to develop critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills across the curriculum. Participants will leave with background on essential 21st century skills and successfully implemented and replicable projects that help K-6 students develop concepts and skills in a meaningful and motivating context. Handouts and links to downloadable material will include specific lesson ideas, resources, and references.

Presenter: Peggy Healy Stearns, Sewalls Point, FL