Are we teaching our children to think? In today’s changing world of the global economy, what has been referred to as critical thinking, and problem solving skills are of more importance than ever.
With the changing economy in the United States, business as usual will not position our children well for addressing the challenges that they will face in the future. They will need to be prepared to: compete with the emerging economies of Asia, Russia and Latin America; address the global energy crisis; and solve the world’s environmental challenges, just to name a few.
To do so effectively our children will need to do more than memorize facts, they will need to be trained and accustomed to thinking of new solutions. One proven teaching technique that is gaining popularity around the country is a method referred to as project based learning (PBL). Project based learning is an immersive teaching and learning technique designed to challenge the children to apply their skills and lessons to real world problems. Through a unique partnership of parents, teachers, administrators and advisors each child develops an ongoing project that will serve as a customized curriculum. Through working on this ongoing project the child will master the knowledge required by the state standardized test, but more importantly will understand how to apply the knowledge.
An invaluable part of the PBL approach is that the students learn many of the lessons by discovering the answers on their own. To draw an analogy, in the coaching world there is technique called the coactive method. This approach is so successful for clients because instead of telling them what they need to do, which usually leads to resistance, a coach helps them discover their own solutions. In doing so it becomes their idea and thus is readily adopted and retained longer. When children discover things on their own, they light up with self-pride and accomplishment, which makes the learning process more fun and meaningful! This is the foundation of PBL method.
By engaging our children in the creative thought process, the PBL method will not only teach children facts, but teach them the critical thinking skills necessary for the world of tomorrow.
For more information on a local school utilizing Project Based Learning, contact the Santa Clarita Valley International (SCVi) school via www.scvCharterSchool.org . To discover your goals, dreams and answers to your own challenges beginning with a free introductory mindset and success coaching session, contact Forest Fisher at Mindset@ForestFisher.com or visit www.ForestFisher.com .