Educators Blog

Why an Ecosystem Approach Advances STEM Learning

Powerful learning does not happen in isolation. This is especially true for our students, which is why STEM learning is so critical. Learning within siloed subject areas does not allow students to see the interconnected nature of science, […]

Norwalk Public Schools uses Defined Learning to create a launchpad for teachers to get started with PBL

A district leader discusses how they determined the best way to scale PD and prepare teachers to implement project-based learning.

“What does Project-Based Learning (PBL) look like for Norwalk?” This question has been Tina Henckel, Director of K-12 […]

5 Future-Ready Skills PBL can Foster in an Elementary School Classroom

In most school districts standards and state-testing drive most curricula and classroom instruction, however, many leaders are incorporating a focus to help students succeed beyond school. Systemically, it can be a struggle trying to determine […]

How You Teach Makes A Difference

Early in my teaching career, I remember walking into the school office with a bounce in my step – the holiday spirit everywhere! Student-made seasonal cards glittered on bulletin boards, a lighted tree sparkled in the office, and smiles issued from […]

A High School Math Teacher at Camden County Schools Uses PBL to Drive Student Achievement

"It’s easier than you think!" This is the advice I gave to my colleagues who were hesitant to try Project Based Learning (PBL) using the Defined Learning platform. I attended a summer institute to learn about Defined Learning after previewing a […]

How Prosper ISD uses Defined Learning to help students deepen understanding of career pathways.

Imagine if a district had a chance to build their schools from the ground up knowing what they do today about how to create an environment that optimizes learning. At Prosper Independent School District, the fastest-growing school district in Texas, […]

5 Ideas for Preparing Students for the Future

Over the past year, there has been an increase in the discussion of how to prepare students for the future of work and the future of learning. With so many changes happening when it comes to education and technology, as educators we must focus on […]

Tips for Customizing a Performance Task

I teach 6th graders in a low-income area. Some of my students are somewhat familiar with technology, but for the most part, they know nothing of tech they cannot hold in their hands. Even though many of my students have some kind of smartphone in […]

Engaging Middle Schoolers in Authentic PBL

Being part of a small and underperforming rural district, we feel the constant pressure that surrounds high stakes testing. As administrators and teachers constantly look at how we can improve state assessment scores (especially in math/reading), […]