Experiences

Project-based learning

Pepa Sánchez Dasí

Spain

High Secondary School

Technology

Teaching in class, Laboratory

Direct

Learning difficulties:
Lack of motivation
Difficulty in applying the theoretical concepts
Difficulties abstraction
Lack of autonomy

Main difficulty in teaching:
High ratio of students per group

I think,The strategy of project-based learning is the best method for technology subjects. In this method, the learning of knowledge is as important as the acquisition of skills and attitudes.
The method consists in carrying out a project, usually of a certain size and in groups. Project has been previously analyzed by the teacher to ensure that student has what it takes to resolve it. In its resolution, students will develop all the skills you want. Project development begins with a generating question. This should not have a simple answer based on information but require the exercise of critical thinking for resolution.
During a course I usually propose three projects. The projects have the following phases:
- Problem Statement.
- Search for information.
- Design phase:
sketches
sketch
views
- Choose the solution
- Materials
- Construction of the prototype
- Verification
- Budget.
An example project for a “3º ESO” level (14 years) is as follows: Work proposal for automating the opening and closing of a door.
This project works contents of electronic, electrical and mechanical.
To facilitate opening and closing of a door we are going to automate it through an electromechanical system.

The specifications shall meet the project are:

• The sliding door is lateral; will be motorized and with a speed reducer via a gear system.

• During the opening and closing movements, two separate LEDs indicating the direction of the door will be lit.

• When the door is open is indicated by a green LED.

• When the door is closed, it will be indicated by a red LED.

• The system will switch startup with its corresponding LED.

• To detect the end positions of the door have two microswitches.

• The control of opening and closing shall consist of a double switch.

Project-based learning helps to model critical thinking and provides scaffolding for students to learn to perform cognitive tasks that characterize critical thinking. Examples of critical thinking are: judge between alternatives, seek the most efficient way to perform a task, weigh the evidence, review the original ideas, develop a plan or summarize the main points of an argument.
Also:
• Increase social and communication skills.
• Enhance the skills to solve problems
• Allow students to do as much to see the connections between different disciplines.
• Provide opportunities to make contributions to the school or community.
• Increase self-esteem. Students take pride in achieving something that has value outside the classroom.