|
Challenge Based Learning
I had the privilege to host a breakout session following Hall Davidson for over 300 motivated teachers in Baldwin County, AL yesterday. They have taken on a 1:1 student to computer initiative to increase engagement and motivation. This was the first of many professional development opportunity through a Digital Renaissance Academy over the next year to encourage them to integrate a variety of strategies and frameworks for teaching in this new format. I knew I was in a motivated district when I watch from the back of the room while Hall was speaking and watched as 50% of the audience pull out his presentation (http://linkyy.com/MDLA) on their devices while he was speaking. This "tuesdays" is inspired by the breakout sessions we presented to the teachers. (Sorry, I was a little late - I'm writing this in flight!)
|
|
The Challenge Based Learning website is a masterpiece. Apple Education has coined the phrase Challenge Based Learning (CBL) to engage the students in meaningful, collaborative and innovative framework. CBL is research, hands-on, meaningful and exciting for students and teachers. From the CBL website, Challenge Based Learning
- A flexible framework for learning with multiple entry points
- A scalable model with no proprietary systems or subscriptions
- Places students in charge of their learning
- Focuses on global challenges with local solutions
- Promotes the authentic use of technology
- Develops 21st century skills
- Encourages deep reflection on teaching and learning
To me, the most impressive part of this valuable website is the tangible framework created to give teachers a step-by-step process while allowing students to initiate their learning. Apple hit it out of the park with this website!
|
|
If you ever considered taking on project based learning, problem based learning or challenged based learning, you recognize the need to give students a more meaningful experience that can make a difference on a local level. The Challenge Based Learning website comes with scores of video samples of their framework and video vignettes of successful projects. I encourage you to visit the Challenge Based Learning website for inspiration. Is it scary to take on such an initiative? You bet, but with visionary leadership like Baldwin County, AL it's a bit easier. If your district doesn't seem ready, begin a PLN to investigate the possibilities. Everything you need is in one compact site at CBL including frameworks, guides and graphic organizers.
|
How do you investigate the site to get the most bang for you buck? If you don't have much time, but are really interested, I recommend that you click the second tab - About CBL. In this section, click on Key Elements to find video driven explanation of each of the processes of Challenged Based Learning. I love their description: The Challenge Based Learning process begins with a big idea and cascades to the following: an essential question, a challenge, guiding questions, activities, resources, determining and articulating the solution, taking action by implementing the solution, and evaluating the results. The process also integrates important ongoing activities such as reflection, assessment, and documentation. The number #1 important piece is to download the CBL framework and it will all make sense. Apple's initiative is a community service to all teachers concerned about engaging our students of today for tomorrow's workforce.
|
| What is "tuesdays with Karen"?
|
"tuesdays with Karen" is a weekly newsletter/blog designed to encourage, equip and empower teachers to be creative with educational technology. Please add your technology comments to my "tuesdays with Karen" blog. |
