A Crash Course to Creating a PBL and Constructivist Mathematics Learning Environment
In this presentation I have concisely gathered the key components to effective mathematics teaching based on research study for Mathematics Intermediate Qualification course. I have attempted to illustrate how these key components will look for a teacher. Should you wish to further investigate or discuss a specific area presented, or have questions please ask.
Learning Goals & Big Ideas
To begin teachers plan units with the overall expectations, specific expectations, learning goals and BIG IDEAS in mind.
Co-Created Success Criteria
Watch this video to see how teachers plan with the learning goal and success criteria in mind.
Using student examples, and with the teachers learning goals and BIG IDEAS in mind, co-create with students success criteria.
Problem Based Learning
This is where the problem based learning (PBL) and constructivist begin. Students are given open questions and parallel tasks where they can have multiple entry points (DI) while deriving their own methods for solutions.
Here is a great article by Marian Small that demonstrates a great example of open questions and parallel tasks.
d
A 3 part lesson is used to introduce problems to students. Watch this video for a better understanding of the 3 part lesson.
-Feedback is Assessment for learning and one of the most important tools in student learning -It refers back to the success criteria
Watch this video on the importance of feedback.
Consolidation
-This is where the class talks about student mathematical thinking and strategies (constructivist) -Connects ideas back to learning goals -Teachers can explicitly teach BIG IDEAS
Here is a great video by Marian Small that addresses the importance of mathematical thinking and consolidation.
Tool Kit
After students have tackled a problem now you can teach tools and strategies to help them solve problems efficiently. -i.e. strategies, procedures within context of the problem to become more efficient in doing math
Students can practice tools and strategies taught and now have a context of where these tools might be used. These can also be differentiated depending on the learner.
Growth Mindset
Subtopic
At the centre of the PBL and Constructivist learning models is the idea and classroom culture of a growth mindset. Watch Jo Boaler describe a growth mindset vs. a fixed mindset
Thank you for taking the time to participate in this presentation. Should you have questions or ideas about anything you have seen in this presentation do not hesitate to ask.
