Is Project Based Learning The Answer for Schools in a World of AI?
I talk with Phil Alcock, who believes project based learning is the answer for schools in a world of artificial intelligence.
Phil holds multiple roles across the AI education space, expert in project based learning, and a lifelong educator. He is the founder of AIxPBL, a curriculum design consultant, an AIxED developer, and STEM teacher.
Phil walks us through the main components of project based learning, why schools struggle to implement it, how a world of AI enhances project based learning, and he shares his take on technological innovations on the horizon.
Here’s my top takeaways from our conversation, though the full episode is definitely worth a listen as Phil is dropping gems throughout:
Project based learning is the answer for schools in a world of AI
Phil walks us through PBL in it’s optimal form — all students engaged, collaborating, and exploring complex problems grounded in their topics and interests. Traditional assessments, grading, and consistently spaced worksheets take a backseat to group dialogue, innovation, and multimodal assignments.
A major threat to PBL is the fear of key stakeholders
How do we give students grades? How do I know they’re learning? When will they work on their essay? Phil is accustomed to the bombardment of logistical questions and skepticism often met with the implementation of project based learning. The adoption of PBL in many ways, is more unlearning than learning. Acknowledging that grades and a high volume of worksheets doesn’t always translate to engagement, learning, and growth.
AI enhances project based learning
While the deployment of AI technology is a challenge for traditional schooling elements like the emphasis on knowledge, essays, grading, and specialized content instruction, it enhances the strengths of a project based learning experience. Beyond making ideation, editing, and research more efficient, AI creates the opportunity for students to produce multimodal assignments. It also allows teachers to produce complex case studies and project guardrails in much less time.
Massive thank you to Phil Alcock for sharing his expertise.
Check out our full conversation here. Join the conversation at TheAIEducationConversation.com
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