Project Based Learning: I suppose what I learned is that project based learning is a slower process than “traditional” lecture based learning. What I mean is that when there is no “expert” guiding the learning process, the learning group not only has to learn the subject, but they also have to research, locate and vet the learning materials as well. This takes more time, undoubtedly. It also creates uncertainty, even after source materials have been located because we aren’t 100% sure that what we’ve gathered is foundational, tangential or just plain wrong. Of course, most grad students have years of learning behind them, so individual research is certainly doable, it’s just less comfortable without an expert guide.
That said, this is also the positive aspect of Project Based Learning. We are teaching ourselves when we collaborate, research materials, synthesize information, try to form a group voice, etc. We are learning how people learn – particularly in collaboration. And that’s what we are in this program for.
Ryan – very well put. It was an uncomfortable process on a lot of different levels -figuring out what material to use, how much to use, and just trying to form a ‘group voice.’ My question is this, is project based learning always so hands off on the part of the instructor? It felt very hands off in this instance. I think that it should be structured and supported at the beginning with the gradual release of responsibility to the students.