Unlock the potential of project-based learning (PBL) and its impact on the future of education with Matt Navo of the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence. Our conversation peels back the layers of educational policy and its intersection with PBL, providing an enlightening perspective on how we can reimagine learning. As a former eighth grade English teacher, my own classroom transformation through PBL led to notable improvements in discipline rates and attendance, a testament to the methodology's effectiveness. With standards at the forefront, we discuss the balancing act between real-world problem-solving and the rigidity of state testing, aiming for a harmonious blend that advances student performance.
The tug-of-war between the aspirational goals of education and the constraints of standardized testing is a theme we examine with intrigue. Inspired by Simon Sinek's infinite game concept, we confront the finite metrics that often overshadow the deeper, more significant outcomes of learning. Amidst this, we champion the essence of PBL, where passion and purpose collide to create a more meaningful educational journey. We also consider the necessity for educators to step into the policy arena, advocating for a shift from traditional assessments to a narrative that cherishes broader indicators of success, such as graduation and college completion rates.
Exploring the terrain of instructional frameworks that support PBL, we question the adequacy of a single test to capture the breadth of a student's educational journey. We highlight the critical role of universal design for learning (UDL) in cultivating environments where diverse learning styles can thrive through PBL. Additionally, we address the importance of advocacy in educational policy changes, underlining the power of community involvement in ensuring PBL's longevity. Each chapter of our dialogue paints a picture of the evolving landscape of education—facing challenges, seizing opportunities, and striving toward a future where every classroom is a hub of inspiration and innovation.
CONNECT WITH MATT NAVO
Twitter: @MatthewNavo
JOIN THE ONLINE PBL COMMUNITY
https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/join-today
SIGN UP FOR THE MAGNIFY LEARNING NEWSLETTER
https://www.magnifylearningin.org/newsletter-sign-up
SHARE A PBL WIN!
ORDER THE BOOK PBL SIMPLIFIED
SCHEDULE A PBL TRAINING WITH MAGNIFY LEARNING
https://resources.magnifylearningin.org/onsite-workshops
CHECK OUT RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST
ASK RYAN A QUESTION FOR THE PODCAST
https://www.magnifylearningin.org/ask-ryan-your-pbl-questions
FOLLOW RYAN ON TWITTER
https://mobile.twitter.com/ryansteuer
BOOK A MAGNIFY LEARNING DESIGN DAYS WORKSHOP
https://www.magnifylearningin.org/design-days-sign-up
Some of the links above are affiliate links which means we get a small commission on anything you purchase using that link (at no more cost to you). As Amazon Associates we earn from qualifying purchases.
STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT EPISODE OF THE PBL SIMPLIFIED COMING SOON!
