What is your “WHY” for teaching? I went into teaching to give others the vocabulary and organization needed to express themselves clearly in all aspects of their lives.
Area of Expertise: Language Arts PBL facilitator- I studied English Education and American Literature at Ball State University.
PBL Experience: The first decade of my teaching career, I spent in a traditional classroom, and have now taught wall-to-wall PBL for the last five years, both in middle school and high school classrooms.
Favorite aspect of PBL: I love PBL because of its authenticity; students see the direct, real-world application of my course standards and never wonder when they will use it in their lives.
What is the importance of coaching?
PBL is not only difficult and intensive, but many questions that you have about PBL arise when you are in the middle of it! Thus, it is essential to have an outlet to continually ask questions, seek feedback, and identify areas of focus. Knowing that each month, you will have an hour to consult with a coach, you are more apt to notice your issues, take note of your questions, and take a deeper self-assessment of our practices.
What do you enjoy about coaching?
I really enjoy the awakenings, breakthroughs, and triumphs that participants have during our time together. Also, teaching in the PBL style for over a decade, I can intimately relate to all of the issues participants face. Being able to identify roadblocks and share the resources that redirected me is an absolute joy. We all hold each other accountable and work to improve each other. I love being a part of groups like coaching has allowed me to join in on.
How has coaching helped your own PBL practice?
Just because I have years of experience under my belt, does not mean that I do not face my own challenges and struggle with implementing PBL with fidelity. As I teach, I am also learning. Solid ideas are reinforced and missteps are identified. By working with other faculty, I can better approach my peers in my faculty. By reminding myself of the steps and required elements of a great PBL, I improve my ability to identify those elements in my own work and life.