Overview

Navigating twenty-first century life seems to involve one complex project after another! Find out how to transfer this reality to the adult education classroom via meaningful classroom projects. These projects not only draw on and develop an array of language and literacy skills, but also enhance "soft" employability skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, ability to collaborate, and self-management.

Please note: This course will take place in Blackboard where you will find all virtual session information, course materials, and additional resources. You cannot access the online course from the SABES website. You will receive a separate email one or to two days before the course begins with instructions on how to access the Zoom session. If you do not receive these instructions, please check your Spam folder and/or send an email to nruskin@edc.org

    Audience

    This professional development activity/course is designed for:

  • Instructors of all levels of adult ESOL
  • ABE teachers of all levels
  • Instructional leaders
Description

This session will define project-based learning (PrjBL) and provide a rationale and strategies for implementing this approach with adult learners at various levels of literacy and language proficiency. You will explore the PrjBL process step by step, identify adaptations for different levels, and discuss how to apply these takeaways to their context. Sample projects from current classroom teachers as well as from the national Teaching the Skills That Matter Toolkit will be provided. 

Follow-up coaching is available through SABES to support you in integrating new tools and strategies into your teaching practice. To arrange a coach, please contact the PD Center Director for ESOL, Dori McCormack, at dmccormack@edc.org; for ELA, contact Evonne Peters at evonne_peters@worlded.org.

    Learning Objectives

    Upon completion of this professional development activity/course, you will be able to:

  • Articulate key elements of project-based learning (PrjBL)
  • Identify how PrjBL is a means to rigorous, content-focused instruction that develops key "soft" skills, academic skills, language, and content knowledge
  • Consider how PrjBL can be implemented in various adult education classes, including ESOL
  • Access resources for further learning about PrjBL
Presenter(s) / Facilitator(s)
Prerequisites

Although not required, attending the session on problem-based learning on May 18, 2023, with Jayme Adelson-Goldstein is recommended. 

Attendees should have a basic knowledge of Zoom features and breakout rooms. 

Date
05/25/2023 - 11:00 am to 05/25/2023 - 12:30 pm
Location

United States

PD Center
C&I PD Centers Collaboration
Topic Area
CCRSAE (College and Career Readiness Standards for Adult Education)
Curriculum Development
ELA
ESOL/English Learners
MA ELPS (Massachusetts English Language Proficiency Standards)