490 likes | 2.46k Views
Project Method. Methods of Teaching. Lecture Discussion Questions Demonstration Project. Definition.
E N D
Methods of Teaching • Lecture • Discussion • Questions • Demonstration • Project
Definition An educational method where students working individually or in small groups analyze and develop”real-life” problem or tackle a present day theme within a preset time limit, working independently and with the division of tasks clearly defined.
Introduction • The project is one of the standard teaching methods. • It is generally considered a means by which students can: • develop independence and responsibility • practice social and democratic modes of behavior. • The project method is a genuine product of the American progressive education movement. • Whenever constructivist concepts, inquiry-based learning, problem-solving, and design are discussed in American education, the "project" is considered to be one of the best and most appropriate methods of teaching.
Introduction Continued • When a student successfully completes a project they demonstrate the information learned and the ability to complete a group of skills. • Criterion-referenced assessments help to eliminate competition and may improve cooperation.
History of Project Method • Method of choice since the dawn of civilization • 590-1765: The beginnings of project work at architectural schools in Europe. • 1765-1880: The project as a regular teaching method and its transplantation to America. • 1880-1915: Work on projects in manual training and in general public schools. • 1915-1965: Redefinition of the project method and its transplantation from America back to Europe. • 1965-today: Rediscovery of the project idea and the third wave of its international dissemination.
How does project method fit in modern education? Learning Principle Project Method • We learn best when we are ready to learn. • Must know, to do. • Practice and application are requirements. • Learning is enhanced with use. • We learn best when new knowledge is useful and beneficial. • Direct project selected is based on immediate need. • Successful learning stimulates more learning • The complexity of the projects increases. If a person only knows how and not why, they will seldom advance above skilled labor.
Characteristics of a Skilled Craftsman • Choose appropriate materials • Plan procedures • Lay out work • Select methods • Select “best” tools and equipment • Displays required level of skills to use tools and materials. • Can analyze and solve problems • Are able to adapt to change • Follow written and oral directions. All are components of project method.
Five (5) Characteristics of Good Projects. • Identifiable educational objectives • Clearly defined • Appropriate in scope and difficulty for the abilities of the student • Related to student needs • Challenging
Project Evaluation • If students complete projects as part of the curriculum--they must be evaluated. • Many teachers do not use the project method because they don’t want to spend the time that it takes to select, supervise construction and evaluate projects. • Evaluation should be criterion referenced. • Reduces subjectivity • Evaluations are more consistent. • Removes personality conflicts • Can develop a common evaluation for different types and scale of projects.
Criterion Referenced Evaluations • "An assessment where an individual's performance is compared to a specific learning objective or performance standard and not to the performance of other students. • Criterion-referenced assessment tells us how well students are performing on specific goals or standards rather than just telling how their performance compares to a norm group of students nationally or locally. • In criterion-referenced assessments, it is possible that none, or all, of the examinees will reach a particular goal or performance standard.” Wildemuth (1985)
Using Criterion Referenced Evaluation with Project Method Critical aspects: Project Method • Problem project will solve. Educationally and physically (1) Goal/task analysis -- identify what needs to be learned, (2) Performance objectives -- exact specification of the outcomes to be accomplished and how they are to be evaluated (the criterion). (2) Determine individual performance in comparison to a standard or criterion. • Accuracy of dimensions • Quality of paint • Supporting documentation Robert Mager
ExampleMultiple Item, Multiple level Criterion Referenced Evaluation
Advantages Of Project Method • Opportunity to learn skills that are important for jobs. • Provides an opportunity for individuals to use their hands. • Completion of the project gives individuals an accomplishment. • Stimulates an interest in Agricultural Mechanics. • Adds variety to a program. • Provides immediate results. • Advertises the work of the