Keywords: project-based learning, 21st Century skills,
inquiry, authentic learning, motivation, creativity
Mrs. Regent was erasing the board, getting prepared for
the next lesson, when the new assistant principal walked in.
Introductions were made as the assistant principal perused
the room. He stood for a minute or two, just looking at the
classroom. Finally, he spoke. “They are all so... engaged,” he
said with astonishment. The teacher paused for a moment,
not sure what to say. She looked around, and it was evident
that each child was immersed and focused on his or her work.
The only thing that the teacher could respond to the assistant
principal was, “Aren’t they supposed to be?”
“Can I please do a project? I have an idea for an
inquiry! Please? Please?” Have you ever heard a child
beg to do work? In a project-based learning classroom,
it is routine!