Intel Teach Program: Module 1

To start off our progression through the Intel Teach Program, Module 1 introduced us to the idea of teaching through projects. The Module walked us through the benefits of teaching using projects and how we can apply those projects to the rising demand for teaching students 21st century skills.

I think it will be interesting to approach this with an already up-to-date background in technology. Since my Bachelor's degree is in mass communications, I am familiar with a number of the Web 2.0 tools that were discussed in the course's introduction. Until now, however, I have never thought about applying my knowledge of many of these skills to the classroom, mostly because I was unaware of the benefits. Throughout the process of creating a unit, we will begin to uncover and understand the benefits of project-based-teaching.

When working with a project-based unit, it is important for teachers to constantly evaluate what students will be learning from the projects. The projects should always connect to present-day events and to the students' lives as well as connect to as many content area subjects as possible. By learning through projects, students get the experience of using a variety of different skill sets, learn new types of technology, and produce a project that is relevant. The unit should answer a number of broad and specific questions. Teachers using a project-based unit are given the opportunity to have a source of constant assessment, if the projects are properly observed throughout their creation.

One of the biggest challenges I foresee will be getting some of the Web 2.0 tools out of my head as things that can only be used by professionals. I think it will be an interesting challenge for me to intentionally apply 21st century skills to my classroom in the creation of my unit.