Number 1. Give learners freedom to choose. This video is part of a series on the principles
of project learning. In this episode, we will explore how project learning begins by giving
learners freedom to choose. Learning is richer, more rewarding and deeper when learners are
given freedom to choose how they engage with the learning process. As we all move into
an environment where more and more learning is happening outside the conventional classroom,
it becomes more important than ever that we give learners freedom to choose. This principle
is at the heart of project learning. Project work is personal. When working on a project,
the learner is in the driving seat: the learnerís own interests and skills help to shape what
they produce. As a result, the learning process becomes more meaningful and engaging and often,
project work leads to learners producing high quality outcomes that reflect their personal
interest and commitment to the learning process. Moving forward with project learning.
When it comes to project learning, it isnít a matter of ëall or nothingí. Project learning
can be used as one of a range of different approaches. Some teachers prefer to spend
lesson time by instructing learners. Others prefer to give learners more freedom to choose
how they approach assignments. Many teachers like to incorporate both instruction and project
learning as part of a varied approach to learning. There is no right answer to the question - how
much project work should I do with my learners? We can all make use of project learning, whether
we decide to use it as our main mode of learning or simply as one of the tools in our toolkit.
Starting points. So, how do we make a start with project learning?
Itís best to start where you are now, with the learners you have. This applies whether
you are teaching 8-year-olds or 18-year-olds. It applies if you are a school teacher, a
mentor working with a group young people, or a parent helping your children with home
learning. Here are some practical tips for the first steps on the project learning journey.
* Let learners choose a research topic. For example, choose one of the capital cities
of the world and prepare a talk for your class on its human and physical geography.
* Turn an assignment into a creative challenge. For example, make a documentary video on your
favourite topic from history. * Set a practical challenge. For example,
you have been asked to reduce your schoolís energy bill. Research possible changes and
present your proposals. * Link learning to home life. For example,
how many ways can you identify of reducing single use plastic in your home?
* Use co-creation. For example, work in groups to find the best online sources on sustainable
design and create a shared slideshow for your class.
These ideas can be used straight away. You donít need to re-write your entire curriculum.
The starting point is to look at what you expect learners to do, and ask yourself: can
we get to the same endpoint but along the way, give the learners more freedom to choose
as part of the process? This is the first step on the road to project learning.