Web 2.0-Infused Project-Based Learning

 "Web 2.0 refers to today’s internet. Its no longer just an information source, but rather a place where we all have identities." - Mister C.

Meaningful Learning Starts Here

I recently read a blog post from Mister C's Teaching with Technology for Maniahs, in which a teacher integrated multiple forms of Web 2.0 technology in order to create a PBL (project-based learning) lesson. Mister C explained the essential elements to successful project-based learning:

Significant Content >> Fiscal responsibility, addressed common core, digital literacy and citizenship and
used Edmodo, Google Drive, GlogsterEDU, and Facebook and created a website: Kidz Cool Treats.


21st Century Skills >> I had to research 21st Century Skills and learned how project-based learning is affected by:

• Life and Career skills
• Learning and Innovation skills
• Information, Media, and Technology skills
• 3 R's (reading, writing, arithmetic)

In-depth Inquiry >> Becoming knowledgeable about the background of the assignment and how things work

The Driving Question >> Asking and exploring in-depth the essential questions of the lesson

Need to Know >> The information that all students are required to know about the project; Note that Mister C. had his class create the list themselves so students could take ownership in their learning.

Voice and Choice >> Students were given a large amount of creative control!

Revision and Reflection >> Feedback was given from teacher to student, student to student, and from principal to class. Being able to take constructive criticism and make the students' work even better was a valuable process!

Public Audience >> Possibly the most rewarding and interesting part of this project was the fact that their ice cream was actually sold to the public! A website and Glog was created to get the word out, and students contacted a loan officer to help get their ice cream flavor out there. Facebook was also utilized to promote the product!

These types of meaningful, engaging, and creative lessons are the kind I look forward to teaching! They are also an example of how the Web 2.0 technologies are working for students!