The project-based learning will help teachers and students create a sustainable environment
It’s known that kids/students learn at a deeper level when they do meaningful projects. Practical knowledge increases engagement and creates memorable experiences. However, let’s be real. The project-based learning environment can feel daunting at first. To make it fit within the standards and use it as a weapon to tackle real-world problems, Van Andel Education Institute (VAEI) has introduced its Blue AppleTM projects, project-based learning (PBL) unit(s) for K-5 teachers and students.
Despite making project-based learning reality is very time-consuming, it is one of the most effective ways for students to develop the critical and creative thinking skills necessary for 21st-century careers. Multiple studies have proven that engagement increases achievement. Blue Apple projects make sure every student participates with their engaging, real-world context to learning by having students find solutions to everyday problems.
Blue Apple teachers, the next-gen expertise
- Blue Apple offers ready-made learning experiences for teachers who want to implement cross-curricular, project-based learning in their classrooms.
- Blue Apple does the heavy lifting by putting together expertly curated, project-based learning experiences. This means teachers have time to do what they do best — teach!
Each Blue Apple project gives teachers supplies, online resources, access to experts and even the ability to find other classrooms doing the same projects. Project examples include:
- State of Sustainability—students learn about sustainability to fight real-world problems. In this project, students use their creativity to design a book about their state that informs readers how small changes can develop a more sustainable world. Then they’ll publish and sell their book for a charitable cause.
- Moments to Remember—students connect with and learn from previous generations. In this project, students make friends with a resident of a retirement community and listen to the story of their new friend’s life. Then they craft a biography capturing the moments that made their life meaningful.
- Lend a Hand—students learn about the concept of microlending. As a class, students raise and lend money to entrepreneurs in developing nations to make a positive impact on the world.
Terra Tarango, chief education officer at VAEI, says, “When students can connect their lessons to real-world problems, they are more intrinsically motivated to learn whatever it is we need to teach.”
