Project-Based Learning at Clear View Charter Elementary

It was interesting to watch the YouTube video about the 4th and 5th grade classes at Clear View Charter Elementary who worked over a video connection with scientists from local universities to study insects. This was a very hands-on technique and allowed students to go in depth and learn for themselves the parts of an insect. By doing this, the teacher, Jim Dieckmann, allowed his students to have a hands-on experience to find out what the scientific process is all about. By working hands-on, the students took an active role in their learning which will help them better retain the information. This project was also very collaborative, allowing students to work with each other, their teacher, as well as the scientists. By creating the multimedia report, the students were able to express their ideas and demonstrate what they’ve learned in a fun and interactive way. Mr. Dieckmann also used a very interesting technique of evaluating student achievement: he asked them to help him create their own standards for assessing the quality of their projects. By doing so, students not only self-evaluate, but they also get feedback from their peers and teachers. In doing so, they internalize the desire to improve their work to reach the standards they have placed for themselves.