VII. 4. Extending the Topic: PBL Classrooms. Mini quiz

A)    Teacher’s role.

B)    Use but do not misuse technology.

C)    Open-shelf library. 

D)    Floor mats, tables, or desks?

E)    The role of group work.

1. In a PBL classroom problems are presented and students must solve those problems in smaller groups. Consequently, a successful PBL classroom is different from traditional classrooms and it needs to be designed in order to accomodate several smaller groups.  

2. One important rule to bear in mind is that learning spaces help set the tone for learning. It means that space must be organized in a way that supports collaboration. The traditional neat lines of forward facing desks are the ’enemy’. Instead, for small children floor mats or cushions should be used. On the other hand older students often need large work surfaces. Large round or rectangular tables are the best for them. If such tables are not available, teachers may simply push smaller desks together. 

3. The second golden rule of a PBL classroom is the use of technology with purpose. One of the most important goals of PBL is to help children develop life skills, or, as they are also called, real-world skills. Consequently, IT plays a very important role in any PBL classroom. On the other hand, teachers should be aware of the fact, that technology can also become a distraction, so, internet use should be monitored and guidance should be given to children on the purposeful use of technology.

4. The third simple rule is related to where teachers are and what teachers do in the classroom.  In PBL classrooms teachers need to be flexible, supportive and enthusiastic. They need to circulate, they need to be ’everywhere’. They should also know when to correct and ’teach’, and, when to step back and let children take the leading role, even make mistakes.

1 - Cloze (3): JXUwMDFk

2 - Cloze (4): JXUwMDFj

3 - Cloze (5): JXUwMDFh

4 - Cloze (6): JXUwMDE5