← Back to articles Learning to overcome obstacles through project-based pedagogy Carolanne Tremblay , Monday, August 21 2017

In my classroom, there are many good reasons to achieve something, but it is always necessary to remember that a pedagogical intention hides behind each project! In my opinion, what students learn through a project is difficult to teach using other methods.

Learning: a bumpy path

As a teacher, we would like our students to be successful and the path to learning to be peppered with little pleasures. However, we must remember that it is by facing obstacles that we anchor what we acquire. We need to give our students the space to face the challenges that come.

The teacher: a guide

When a difficulty arises, the teacher's job is to guide their students towards the right tools. Do not do the work for them. For example, if a conflict occurs in a team. Teachers can provide tricks to manage conflict correctly, provide a framework for students to drive what is happening, but they must give young people a chance to do it in their own way.

If the teacher understands their role as a guide, the implementation of the project-based pedagogy in their class will be simple and effective. This method will allow students to develop their creativity, autonomy, learn to focus on their task, and communicate their needs. In addition, this will foster motivation and commitment among learners while empowering them. Finally, students will learn to work with their peers and transfer their knowledge and skills.

By carrying out a project, the students make connections between the knowledge acquired in the past and their skills while confronting their ideas with those of their classmates.

The greatest learning that students acquire, and this applies to each project, is the ability to adapt. Adapting to the other students they work with, how they communicate their needs, how fast they work, their delivery method, how they adapt to their teacher's schedule, goals and expectations, etc. In short, to adapt to the unavoidable of educational and professional life.

Next week: The advantages of team teaching. How to take advantage of team teaching in our practice of project-based pedagogy.