In Sharisse Nunes’ sixth-grade Falcon Hill Elementary School class, students are deep in discussion about the engineering design process.
Students imagine, create and build miniature chair prototypes based on their simulated clients’ needs. The room bubbles with excitement as Sharisse masterfully guides her pupils through the lesson, using Project-Based Learning (PBL) methodology.
“I want you to imagine you are a carpenter hired by your client to build a chair,” Sharisse stated while addressing the class. “Think about their needs. This isn’t a standard chair you can purchase at the store. How is your chair going to be unique? Please get into teams and discuss your ideas.”
After lively conversation, students sketch ideas on paper. Then, they work as a team to build models, using pipe cleaners, toothpicks and model clay.
Preparing students for the real world
Last year, Falcon Hill Elementary School implemented the pilot program that teaches students to identify and provide solutions to real-world problems, enabling students and educators to reach beyond the school building.
Students gain knowledge and skills by learning to investigate and respond to complex questions and challenges. PBL aligns with state standards to ensure students are equipped with the soft skills needed to collaborate with a team.
Students learn while thinking critically and harnessing their creativity and imagination to solve 21st century world challenges. They start by exploring concepts, such as color wheel personalities, learning styles and growth mindset to discover their personal styles. This also helps them recognize peers’ traits, allowing them to work cohesively with others.
“The very mention of PBL gets students excited,” Sharisse said. “Each project meets a world need, has a focus topic relative to student learning, sets up a realistic scenario, and involves tools, tasks and processes used by adults.”
Upon completing a project, Sharisse said students have a better understanding of the content presented, retain learned information longer, and are able to apply knowledge to new situations.
“The old way of learning is to sit in the class, memorize material, and try to pass a test,” said Dr. Lisa McCray Cannon, Falcon Hill Elementary School principal. “Adults live in a world of projects, whether it’s a job assignment, home improvement project, or planning a wedding or function. PBL educators serve as coaches, guiding students to use a variety of resources and strategies that are fun and motivate students to take ownership of their learning.”
If interested in learning more about Project-Based Learning, visit mpsaz.org/falconhill/pbl.