Super Summary Section Four pages 87-116

This section pertains to 21st centruy learning in practice. Two key tools that "may be the most powerful learning tools ever devised are: Questions and the process to uncover their answers, and problems and the inventing of their possible solutions." p. 90 This is how new knowledge and new skills can be attained.
The Project Learning Bicycle is described to clarify a good learning project The Wheels include defining, planning, doing and reviewing. Defining is figuring out the question or problem clearly. Planning is setting up student directed activities which the students DO. To review, students present and receive feedback. The Project Bicycle Frame and Components is described as coordination and management of the project guided by the question or problem. The gears are the tools used in the project. On the Project Road is how the project is accompllished including the challenges and the importance of keeping a good balance. "The goal is a rich learning experience that blends knowledge, understanding, and solid performance on many of the 21st century skills." p.101 The Bacteria Lab project was described as A Successful Ride because all the components were there to encourage a successful outcome including a good balance of teacher guidance and student directed research, planning, evaluating, collaboration, etc... Learning to design and designing to learn is how we prepare students for the future.
Does project learning work? Yes, according to Linda Darling-Hammond and her colleagues from Stanford. After evaluating research, they concluded the following: Working together in collaborative groups increases knowledge, confidence, motivation, and positive social interaction. Project learning methods have proven to increase test scores, critical thinking skills and confidence, flexibility and knowledge, content mastery, sensitivity to audiences, and communication. Students who struggle with the more traditional forms of teaching, such as lecture and textbook approaches, benefit greatly from this method of learning. Problem based learning and design based learning are types of project learning methods and have the same benefits. Examples are presented of each type of learning discussed above.
To make collaborative learning work well is a challenge and should include the following: making sure the teams are compatible, clarifying team rules, making sure the activities can benefit from diverse backgrounds and using discussion to encourage deeper learning.
Teaching students to work on their own as well as ask the right question is a challenge for the design learning method. Teachers have their work cut out for them, as well, as they learn to facilitate, coach, provide expertise and guidance, and model the 21st century skills they desire their students to learn.