I thoroughly enjoyed this week’s article readings about project based learning. The first-hand account of how a teacher struggled and succeeded while implementing PBL was reassuring to me. I love the idea of project-based learning and DBQs, but at this point for me it’s all theory. Connecting this reading with the Kindergarten Teachers’ presentation really made this practice come alive for me. It’s one thing to learn about PBL and formative assessments through readings and discussions, but it’s an entirely different learning experience when you get to personally interact with teachers implementing these activities on a daily basis.
I think it would be really helpful to hear from an upper elementary teacher who is working on PBLs and DBQs in the classroom. I would appreciate getting a different perspective or experience. It was also encouraging to hear the two teachers talk about their professional learning community. One thing I am worried about when becoming a teacher is the idea of being alone in my lesson planning. I liked hearing these teachers talk about their collaboration with their kindergarten team and being able to bounce ideas off of each other.
Coming away from class last night, I am still very lost on how to critique a rubric to determine its efficiency level. I understand the general idea, but I am worried for my assessment project because I feel like I didn’t get enough specific direction about critiquing. During our discussion, many people had different feelings about the efficiency of the example rubric, so my question is, are differing opinions okay?