Project-based Learning: Principles and Practices for the Language Classroom

Project-based Learning: Principles and Practices for the Language Classroom

1. Demands for 21st Century Education

   • Preparation in content, but also in skills to develop mastery in new areas, overcome challenges, and take advantage of new opportunities
   • Global society
   • 21st century skills can be applied
     • in all academic areas (interdisciplinary by nature)
     • in educational, career and civic settings
     • throughout a student’s life
   • New careers
   • Has become the basis for educational reform in the U.S. and worldwide
   • Language Teaching and the Four C’s

2. Classroom Environments

   • Traditional classrooms
     • Curriculum is presented part to whole, with emphasis on basic skills
     • Activities rely heavily on textbooks and worksheets
     • Teachers transmit skills or knowledge
     • Learners are “empty vessels
     • Strict adherence to fixed curriculum is highly valued
   • Social-constructivist classroom
     • Curriculum is presented whole to part with emphasis on big concepts
     • Pursuit of student interests is highly valued
     • Activities rely mostly on authentic materials, physical action, mutimodalities
     • Learners are perceived as active builders of their own knowledge
     • Teachers facilitate experiences for learning that take place between individuals

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