I kick off this show with the “need to know” question of how do I increase the engagement level of our students. I use the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge metaphor for filling gaps and increasing engagement through real-world problems. Engagement will lead to rigor in learning which leads to opportunity.

Foster Heights Elementary is a public school in Bardstown, Kentucky that had a really exciting PBL unit with kindergarten and first grade learners. These learners were able to create a huge impact for local residents of a nursing home by publishing a book in order to raise funds to purchase technology, so that the residents could communicate with loved ones. The learners learned leadership skills and so much more.

Episode Highlights:

[01:26] Increasing the engagement level of your students starts with authenticity.

[07:43] This PBL unit was about helping nursing home residents connect with their families during a time when they weren't really able to do so.

[08:59] The students visited local businesses and told the senior’s stories in order to raise money to purchase technology for the nursing home.

[09:54] The kids had enough empathy to publish a book to raise money to help the residents.

[10:54] The kids were surprised with a copy of the book read to them by the publisher.

[13:35] The Husky Hall of Fame recognized community partners and the learners presented the awards.

[19:22] First graders stepped up and led kindergartners.

Resources & Links Related to this Episode

• What is PBL?
• Ask Ryan
• Magnify Learning YouTube
• Project Based Learning Stories and Structures: Wins, Fails, and Where to Start
• Magnify Learning
• Ryan Steuer Twitter @ryansteuer
• Foster Heights Elementary
• Foster Heights Elementary Facebook
• Foster Heights and Project Based Learning
• Book Purchase Link