Project Based Learning
Credentialed Faculty PD Pathways with the OESIS Network
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Project-Based Learning is taking hold at independent schools across the K-12 spectrum and comes in various forms: constructivist, maker-oriented, STEM-focused, entrepreneurship-driven, competency-assessed, standards-driven, modeling-based, experiential, leadership-focused, online and global to mention a few.
Using the principles of backward design as a foundation, this Pathway begins by clearly defining the characteristics of PBL and the misunderstandings associated with this flexible and student-directed approach to learning almost any subject. Debunking the myth that PBL is simply a replacement for a test at the end of a unit, we emphasize the importance of redesigning content and skills in the form of a longer-term project that is driven by a big question and results ina public performance followed by a reflection on learning. Heavily driven by formative assessment, the goal is to restructure, but not replace, traditional courses or to create new interdisciplinary courses by posing big questions that define a set of skills and content from the traditional scope and sequence. Schools may register academic faculty for cohort pathways that are verified by OESIS Network Leaders. Each pathway is designed to be completed within eight to 10 hours, featuring readings, videos, discussions, and assignments. There are 3 levels for each domain typically: Level 1 is Understanding the approach. Level 2 is Design and Level 3 is Implementation. Each Level earns a certificate and Level 3 earns a credential. OESIS Credentialing is Asynchronous feedback based on rubrics for level 1. Asynchronous and Synchronous with 1:1 Tutorial feedback for Level 2. An extra layer of Double Synchronous is added for Level 3. Some courses require and benefit from fieldwork assessment. Site visits are possible when a sufficient volume of teachers are involved.
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