Analysis+Team+Member+A

=Assessment Methods for Project-Based Learning in a K-12 environment=

//__**Krystle Flerchinger: Team Member A**__//

 * __Project description__:**


 * Write a brief description of the project and instructional context. Include some historical background as to how the need for this instructional solution arose.**

"Project-based learning, is a dynamic approach to teaching in which students explore real-world problems and challenges, simultaneously developing cross-curriculum skills while working in small collaborative groups" (Why teach with project-based learning?, 2008). In this project teachers will be able to develop assessment methods for project-based learning that meet teacher and student standards and be able to develop assessment model(s) utilizing rubrics. We will provide teachers with the knowledge, tools, and examples to implement these assessments in project-based learning units in the classrooms.

The need to learn about project-based assessment arose because many teachers do not know how to properly use this method in the classroom to better student understanding. "Although many teachers 'do projects,' not all projects lead to learning" (What is project-based learning?, n.d.). We want to show teachers how to create meaningful units of instruction that meet standards yet provide training for 21st century skills. "These skills include communication and presentation skills, organization and time management skills, research and inquiry skills, self-assessment and reflection skills, and group participation and leadership skills" (What is project-based learning?, n.d.). All of these are relevant to students and will be important life skills. Thus, as a teacher, it is important to know how to use project-based assessments and be able to apply it to their classroom while meeting standards.


 * __Needs analysis__:**


 * In a narrative form, answer the following 4 questions: What is the problem we are asked to solve? Will instruction solve the problem? What is the purpose of the planned instruction? Is an instructional intervention the best solution?**

As educators, we know that differentiated instruction is key for student success. The more ways we provide students to learn a concept, the better they will understand it. However, we also know that many teachers get stuck teaching with the same methods and resources they are use to over and over again. It can be difficult to create new lessons and always engage students every day of the school year; it takes time to design meaningful lessons, create beneficial assignments, and assess student understanding.

Project-based learning is an engaging method that can inspire students to obtain their knowledge of a concept. "Adopting a project-learning approach in your classroom or school can invigorate your learning environment, energizing the curriculum with a real-world relevance and sparking students' desire to explore, investigate, and understand their world" (Why teach with project-based learning?, 2008). Unfortunately, many teachers feel project-based assessments are a waste of time; they can be fun but are an inefficient activity to implement when they have spare time. The purpose of instructing teachers about the need for project-based assessment is if teachers feel confident about how to properly use project-based learning, they are more likely to effectively use it in the classroom and benefit student learning. By providing them with the tools and resources to be successful, they will not feel overwhelmed with creating new lessons and activities.

It is not only important to instruct teachers about the need and how to use project-based assessments, but also how to create rubrics. Teachers need to feel that what they are assigning is also meeting standards and helping students gain knowledge. An instructional training is the best way to provide teachers with the instruction and resources they need to be successful so project-based assessments are actually used. Project-based learning is important in education because it offers teachers another way of instruction. It should not be more work for teachers. The best solution is to offer a short training giving teachers everything they need to have a successful project-based assessment in class.

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 * References**

What is project-based learning?. (n.d.) Retrieved from [].

Why teach with project-based learning?: Providing students with a well-rounded classroom experience. (2008, February 28). Retrieved from [].