Shows
MedAxiom HeartTalkWhen One Size Doesn't Fit All: Using MedAxcess to Drill Into Subspecialty DifferencesIn this episode of HeartTalk, host Melanie Lawson is joined by MedAxiom's Joel Sauer, MBA, executive vice president of Consulting, and Karen Wilson, MHA, vice president of Member Services, to explore the complexity of subspecialty performance metrics in cardiovascular care. The conversation focuses on how MedAxiom’s MedAxcess data tool helps identify meaningful differences in cardiology subspecialties—revealing that “one size fits all” approaches often fall short. They emphasize the importance of deeper data participation and interpretation to build more accurate, fair, and actionable insights for organizations.
2025-10-1115 min
Impactful PBL Podcast[4.6] Rethinking PD: A call to actionDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.In the culminating episode of this season, we explore how instructional leaders can drive transformative change through project-based learning (PBL). We highlight how PBL has the potential to improve student learning and engagement when teachers can effectively facilitate the core practices of project-based instruction.This episode examines how instructional leaders can support teachers beyond traditional professional development methods by providing continuous, differentiated support tailored to their school's unique needs and challenges. Tune in to learn how you can utilize free t...
2025-07-0707 minImpactful PBL Podcast[4.5] Rethinking PD: Mapping a 3-year planDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.This episode explores how instructional leaders can create a unique school identity, engage parents and community members, and foster a robust PBL culture that differentiates their school from others. Fostering a PBL culture in a school is not an overnight transformation. It typically spans three years, depending on the school's starting point. This journey requires careful planning, a clear vision, and an unwavering commitment to creating an environment where project-based instruction can thrive.Hear about a partner school's roadmap to s...
2025-06-3015 minImpactful PBL Podcast[4.4] Rethinking PD: Leading coaching cyclesDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.This episode explores how instructional leaders can build an impactful professional development experience for teachers who facilitate project-based learning. We address the limitations of traditional professional development methods and advocate for a modern approach that provides teachers with sustained support and multiple pathways for engagement. We discuss the importance of starting with personalized growth plans and explain how an eight-week professional learning cycle can work for your school. This episode provides practical insights to help you implement a structured yet flexible professional d...
2025-06-2312 minImpactful PBL Podcast[4.3] Rethinking PD: Creating flexible support systemsDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.The previous episode explored the necessary components of building an impactful project-based learning culture. This episode explores how to execute these components at your school. Recognizing most instructional leaders' limited capacity, we discuss how you can leverage the comprehensive support system the Impactful PBL Network provides for successfully implementing project-based learning (PBL). Building on the essential components required for PBL success: clarity, competence, and capacity, you'll discover how we tailor support to meet your teacher's needs. Through our readiness assessment, professional development c...
2025-06-1615 minImpactful PBL Podcast[4.2] Rethinking PD: Building the foundationDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.This episode explores how instructional leaders can create a sustainable project-based learning (PBL) culture in their schools by understanding and developing three core components for PBL success: clarity, competence, and capacity. We'll discuss what it takes to shift from traditional instructional methods to project-based learning. You'll learn how clarity helps map out your vision for a project-based culture, competence builds essential teaching skills, and capacity ensures the resources or systems for sustainability are present. We'll address common challenges, share practical st...
2025-06-0921 minImpactful PBL Podcast[4.1] Rethinking PD: Shifting from traditional methodsDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.This episode explores the main challenge instructional leaders face as they attempt to provide professional development support for project-based educators. As an instructional leader, you may find yourself excited by the promise of PBL, only to struggle with its practical execution. Traditional training sessions often leave teachers feeling overwhelmed and underprepared to transform their classroom practice. Instead, we emphasize the importance of creating communities of practice that offer educators ongoing, collaborative, and context-specific support. By doing so, you can effectively adopt and s...
2025-06-0214 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.14] Sustaining PBL: Measuring your initiative successDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Have teachers implemented a PBL unit but have not seen immediate results? Are you wondering if it's worth continuing? You're not alone. In fact, this is one of the most common reasons schools abandon their PBL initiatives - but here's why that's a costly mistake.This episode reveals a crucial insight: building an effective PBL initiative takes time, typically spanning three years for full implementation. The impact of project-based learning directly correlates with the fidelity of implementation, but many...
2025-01-2811 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.13] Sustaining PBL: Customizing instructional resourcesDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Are you wondering how teachers can use predesigned project-based learning curriculum but still make it authentic for students? Most teachers prefer to have ready-to-facilitate lessons but also worry that the resources may not meet their students' academic needs and interests. This feeling leaves educators wondering how to solve this dilemma. Don't worry. In this episode, you'll discover:How to identify and integrate local issues into existing PBL unitsPractical ways to incorporate student voices and choicesStrategies for connecting with community e...
2025-01-2110 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.12] Sustaining PBL: Selecting high-quality instructional materialsDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.When launching project-based learning initiatives, school leaders often ask teachers to create resources from scratch or modify existing curricula. While this might seem cost-effective, it's actually compromising both teacher effectiveness and student outcomes.This episode explores why teachers shouldn't create project-based learning resources from scratch and reveal a concerning trend I've observed while working with schools. Talented educators spend countless hours on curriculum development instead of focusing on what they do best - teaching....
2025-01-1513 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.11] Sustaining PBL: Building a community of practiceDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Is your project-based learning initiative struggling to gain traction? You're not alone. Many schools invest in PBL training only to see enthusiasm fade and implementation stall. But there's a crucial element that successful PBL schools have discovered: the power of teacher communities.Our latest article explores how communities of practice amplify project-based learning impact by revealing why isolated PBL implementation often falls short – and how teacher collaboration transforms theoretical knowledge into sustainable practice.Through my work wi...
2025-01-0810 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.10] Sustaining PBL: Aligning existing goals with your project-based initiativeDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.What's one of the biggest challenges instructional leaders face? Viewing project-based learning as separate from their priority initiatives.You're focused on reading scores, math benchmarks, and other pressing goals. PBL feels like a luxury you can't afford right now.But what if PBL could be the framework that makes your existing initiatives more effective? In this episode, we will explore how project-based learning:Naturally aligns with your current curriculum goalsIntegrates multiple subjects into one meaningful learning experienceEnhances (n...
2024-12-1009 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.9] Sustaining PBL: Co-designing professional development with teachersDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Remember the last time you sat through a professional development session that had absolutely nothing to do with your needs? That sinking feeling of wasted time while your actual challenges went unaddressed? Let's avoid accidentally hosting a dreadful professional development experience for project-based teachers.It's time to flip the script on traditional professional development. Instead of top-down mandates, we're advocating for something revolutionary yet simple: letting teachers help design their own professional learning journeys.In this episode, you'll discover:
2024-12-0310 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.8] Sustaining PBL: Helping teachers create a personalized growth planDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Are you struggling to connect teacher professional development with actual student growth in the classroom? You're not alone, and here's the good news: there's a way to ensure every step of teacher growth directly impacts student success!In this episode, we explore how to help teachers make professional development plans that are meaningful to them and impact students' academic outcomes. We challenge the idea that teacher development and student outcomes are separate journeys. In fact, when you pair them together, y...
2024-11-2708 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.7] Sustaining PBL: Conducting a needs assessmentDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Picture this: You're excited to bring project-based learning to your school. Your teachers say they're experienced with PBL, and you're ready to dive into advanced implementation strategies. Sounds promising, right?But here's what we recently discovered at one school: While leaders believed most of their teachers were PBL-savvy, a simple needs assessment revealed that less than half had actually used project-based instruction in their classrooms. This gap between perception and reality could have derailed their entire implementation.This e...
2024-11-2610 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.6] Sustaining PBL: Misconceptions about launchingDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.If you have been following the sustainable PBL series, you now understand that building a sustainable, high-impact, project-based culture is challenging and rewarding. School or district leaders encounter three primary roadblocks when launching a project-based learning (PBL) initiative: lack of clarity, lack of competence, and lack of capacity. In episodes 2-5, we explored the importance of overcoming these roadblocks and how to overcome them. If you skipped those episodes, I highly recommend you listen to them. The success of project-based learning initiatives d...
2024-10-2808 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.5] Sustaining PBL: Building capacityDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.The success of project-based learning initiatives depends on initial implementation efforts and teachers’ ability to sustain project-based instructional practices over time. Instructional leaders play a crucial role in this process by creating the conditions necessary to enhance teachers' ability to enact the core practices of project-based instruction. The challenge is figuring out how to foster the conditions for launching a successful project-based learning initiative and then how to maintain this effort beyond one school year.In this episode, we will explore three to...
2024-07-1714 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.4] Sustaining PBL: Boosting teachers’ competenceDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Project-based learning (PBL) holds the transformative power to engage students actively, foster collaboration, and develop essential problem-solving skills. While PBL yields numerous benefits, implementation has its challenges. Common challenges teachers face include:Adapting to a facilitator roleLeveraging technology effectivelyAligning projects with academic standardsConducting frequent formative assessmentsDifferentiating instruction to cater to students' needs Therefore, a comprehensive teacher development program is necessary to adopt project-based learning successfully. One-off workshops cannot suffice for the depth of understanding required. To genuinely foster a culture of...
2024-04-3014 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.3] Sustaining PBL: Gaining clarity with a visionDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.The challenges instructional leaders encounter when launching a project-based learning initiative often stem from a lack of vision setting. A well-defined vision for a project-based learning (PBL) initiative is essential. The vision not only articulates the purpose and goals of the initiative but also aligns with the school's core values and broader educational objectives. It fosters a cohesive and focused approach to implementation, ensuring educators understand the expectations and engage in the process.This episode explores practical steps for c...
2024-04-1614 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.2] Sustaining PBL: Identifying common roadblocksDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.In this fast-paced, ever-changing world, teachers must adapt their teaching methods to prepare students for the challenges they will face in the real world. One approach that has gained traction for its ability to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and student engagement is project-based learning (PBL). However, implementing and sustaining a high-impact project-based culture within a school or district comes with challenges. In this episode, we'll explore the roadblocks often encountered in building a sustainable PBL culture and discuss strategies for overcoming these obstacles.
2024-04-0215 minImpactful PBL Podcast[3.1] Sustaining PBL: Reimagining professional developmentDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Welcome to season 3! This series will focus on how to build a sustainable, high-impact, project-based culture at your school site or within your school district without overwhelming instructional leaders, teachers, and students. This series is designed for school leaders, professional development coordinators for districts, PBL coordinators, teacher mentors, or anyone serving in a role that supports current or aspiring project-based teachers. It's been a while since our last season. So, in this episode, I will...Share what we've been u...
2024-04-0112 minImpactful PBL PodcastReflections from another year of learning in public + podcast updateDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Season 2 of the Impactful PBL Podcast ended in May which marked two years of this podcast. The podcast started as a “learn in public” project so that I can document my professional journey and share insights about what I’m learning about project-based learning. In this episode, I’m sharing a progress update on my 2021-2022 goals and why I'm pausing the podcast.Tune in to...Explore what it means to learn in public and why I started...
2022-09-1526 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.13] How can we write a compelling scenario for a PBL unit?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Phase 2 of the Impactful PBL Roadmap™ is to map the scenario and write a driving question. The initial scenario structure will involve first determining what students will learn (i.e. standards), thinking of a theme or topic second, and then writing the driving question. The next step is to draft a scenario. I've noticed that most teachers can select standards, a theme, and compose a driving question, but some struggle with writing the scenario in its entirety. This episode will explore how to write a...
2022-05-0211 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.12] How can we create a PBL unit plan?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.As I support teachers to design project-based learning experiences, I notice confusion often arises during phase 5 of the Impactful PBL Roadmap™ planning process. Phase 5 is about creating students' daily learning experiences or lessons. Teachers are usually excited about exploring project-based learning as an instructional method. However, when asked why they haven't implemented project-based learning in their classroom as of yet or why they don't facilitate a project-based learning unit often, teachers typically state that time is a factor.I generally hear, "I do...
2022-04-1110 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.11] What type of public products can students create during PBL? I'm sharing 50+ ideasDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.An essential part of the project-based learning experience is producing a public product or artifact to showcase knowledge for an authentic audience. Depending on the PBL topic and driving questions, the audience could be peers, parents, or community members.Teachers often wonder what students can create for projects besides designing a poster or presentation. Students may also struggle to develop ideas without seeing examples or being given a list of examples of public products. This episode will explore utilizing the driving question...
2022-03-2812 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.10] How can we get students excited about the PBL topic?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.It is essential students buy into their project since they will be exploring their complex question or challenge over an extended time. While hooks for traditional lessons are typically short, less than ten minutes, project-based learning hooks may vary in length to sustain students' interest over a more extended period. A PBL hook typically occurs at the start of the unit, although it is not uncommon for teachers to integrate several ways to cultivate students' interest throughout the project. This episode will explore how...
2022-03-1407 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.9] How can we promote STEM education via project-based learning?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.In traditional learning experiences, subject areas are taught in silos, and teaching often focuses on the "what" of a subject area. Students do not synthesize the material when they memorize parts of a cell in isolation or memorize the steps to solve a math problem without understanding why the process works. Educators know that knowledge should not be measured by simple content regurgitation. It is often encouraged to connect multiple content areas within lessons. This episode will explore how to promote STEM education during...
2022-02-2810 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.8] How can students support a cause via project-based learning?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.We've all participated in a fundraiser at some point in our life, especially as a student. It seems kids bring home items to sell every year to support a team, club, or school. Although many students do not necessarily think about whether or not their fundraising efforts are supporting a cause, they gain some valuable skills during the process. You may be excited (or at least interested) in incorporating a fundraising component into your PBL curriculum, but wonder how to get started. As you...
2022-02-1411 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.7] How can we create a dynamic group culture during PBL?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Project-based learning is an effective way to help students foster their social-emotional learning skills, especially during group collaboration. During phase eight of the Impactful PBL Roadmap™ planning guide, we focus on uniting students and building a collaborative culture. It’s easy to assume that all students enjoy collaborating, possess the skills to handle conflict effectively and understand how to interact with feedback. However, we must teach students how to contribute as effective group members. In this episode, we will explore how to create a dyna...
2022-01-3111 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.6] What role does reflection play in the PBL process?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Recently I’ve heard from many of you who listen to the podcast, attend my workshops, or communicate with me on LinkedIn that you're finishing up a project-based learning unit. I've been checking in with past and current members of the Impactful PBL Network to hear updates. I love listening to what's working, what's not, and what you're learning. It can be easy to wrap up a project-based learning unit and immediately move on without closure. When this happens, it can lead to a f...
2021-12-1310 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.5] How can we teach standards and implement PBL?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.As a project-based learning coach, I'm often asked if it's possible to design a PBL unit that integrates standards. Teachers wonder how they will find time to teach content standards and allow students to create public products. Identifying the learning objectives for your project-based learning unit is phase one of the Impactful PBL Roadmap, the planning framework I created to help educators craft a high-quality project-based learning unit for students. In this episode, I will share the audio version of a short training that...
2021-11-0310 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.4] How can we create a memorable experience via project-based learning?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.I enjoyed college because most of the learning activities the professors used would be considered active learning strategies. We engaged in many case studies or projects, and the professor would utilize relevant current events to lead class discussions. I can share specific learning activities that I experienced during undergraduate and graduate school which occurred over 15 years ago. We want students to remember their learning experiences two decades later as well.In a previous episode, I shared the 6 A's of...
2021-10-2007 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.3] How can we elevate our PBL unit with community partners?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.When researching the components of a quality project-based learning unit, you will find several frameworks stating what PBL should look sound, and feel like. Depending on the source, the actual vocabulary may vary, but they all share the same concepts. In Adria Steinberg's Connected Learning Communities: A Toolkit for Reinventing High School, written in 2001, she shares the 6 A's of instructional or project design. One instructional design component is to include adult connections/relationships when designing learning experiences. Integrating adult connections o...
2021-10-0610 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.2] How can we use portfolios to enhance our teaching practice?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Every school year, I explore a new professional learning growth project. Some of my past explorations included in-depth research on virtual coaching, program design, curriculum writing, designing after-school programming, and project-based learning. This year, I'm examining how to utilize portfolios effectively to improve practice. There are several types of portfolios. Before collecting artifacts, it's essential to determine your portfolio's purpose and intended outcome. Let's discuss how creating a portfolio as a project-based educator can help you document your learning journey. This episode will examine...
2021-09-2309 minImpactful PBL Podcast[2.1] What are the steps to becoming an impactful PBL educator?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Project-based learning is not an instructional method where teachers can attend one workshop and master it. As you know, project-based educators continuously enhance their instructional skills by learning from implementation and being lifelong learners. Effective project-based educators focus on student academic and personal growth and their own growth as well. They understand that it's a journey; however, some teachers find it challenging to identify the next steps on their professional learning path. After supporting hundreds of teachers in executing PBL, I've noticed s...
2021-09-0909 minImpactful PBL PodcastReflections from a year of learning in publicDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Season 1 of the Impactful PBL Podcast is coming to an end. It’s officially been a year since I started this podcast. The podcast started as a “learn in public” project so that I could document my professional journey and share insights about what I’m learning about project-based learning. In this episode, I’m sharing why I decided to create a “learn in public” project, how teachers can do the same, and what to expect during season 2 of the podcast.Tune in t...
2021-06-0313 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.13] How can we shift students from presentations to presentations of learning?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Let’s explore how teachers can enhance their project-based learning unit culminating event. In a previous episode, we examined how to plan a showcase to help students share their knowledge with an authentic audience. Many teachers are able to plan creative ways for students to share their knowledge, and their students can create great solutions to their projects' driving question. However, some teachers experience difficulty fostering an environment where students are equipped to share their learning journey. In this episode, we will examine how to...
2021-05-1811 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.12] How can teachers improve their PBL experience through reflection?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Let’s explore how teachers can improve their project-based learning experience by creating a reflection process. Many of the teachers inside the Impactful PBL Network are wrapping up their project-based learning unit. I'm so thrilled to hear about what students and teachers are learning during their PBL experience. Educators often discuss the importance of providing space for students to reflect, but self-reflection is essential for them as well. In this episode, we will examine a protocol that teachers can use to reflect on their pr...
2021-05-0517 minImpactful PBL PodcastHow to modify your PBL plan to fit your new teaching situationLet's explore how teachers can end the school year strong with project-based learning. Recently, I conducted a check-in with a few members of the Impactful PBL Network, our year-long professional learning program for current and aspiring project-based educators. Many of the teachers' goals involved executing a project-based learning unit this semester, but due to the constant changes with their schools' schedule and logistics, they are experiencing challenges with implementing their plans. Teachers have shared how they are excited about the PBL unit but wonder if it's still feasible to launch it given their current situation. This episode will explore...
2021-04-2119 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.11] How can we enhance students’ public products using effective feedback strategies?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Let's explore how to use feedback to improve students' work during project-based learning by giving quality feedback. Feedback is an essential component of the formative assessment process. The challenge is that sometimes students receive inadequate feedback during the project-based learning unit, preventing them from producing their highest level of work. There are some strategies that teachers can utilize to ensure that they are fostering a culture of feedback in their classroom. This episode will examine how teachers can use effective feedback strategies to enhance...
2021-04-0515 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.10] How can we plan a project showcase without feeling overwhelmed?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Let's discuss how to plan a showcase to help students share their knowledge with an authentic audience. During phase 7 of the Impactful PBL Roadmap, we explore how to finalize students’ showcase agenda to determine how students will share what they learned during the PBL unit with an authentic audience. At this stage, you may be excited for students to share their public products but may feel a little overwhelmed as you begin to think about the actions needed to execute the showcase. This episode wi...
2021-03-2415 minImpactful PBL Podcast12 free Google tools to help manage students' projectsGiven the multi-faceted layers of project-based learning, tracking students’ progress is essential. In episode 15, we explored how to track students' progress and examine ways to set up a project management system to help students stay organized. As an educator, you know how difficult it can be for students to manage documents, resources, and materials. Furthermore, depending on the grade level and subject area, it's possible to find yourself managing five projects or twenty-five projects, which can be overwhelming. Let's explore how you can use a free tool, Google Workspace for Education (formerly GSuites for Education), to manage students' documents, co...
2021-03-0811 minImpactful PBL Podcast5 thoughts holding you back from trying PBLLet's discuss how you have everything you need to get started with project-based learning. I've spoken to many teachers who have read books, listen to podcasts, and even attended workshops about project-based learning because they are interested in becoming project-based educators. However, many teachers are stuck at the exploration stage and are experiencing difficulty transitioning to the implementation phase of PBL. I understand that the idea of trying anything new right now may feel overwhelming. Still, with proper planning and adequate support, it's possible to facilitate a high-performance PBL unit during an in-person, remote, or hybrid learning environment. In...
2021-02-2215 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.9] What is the teachers’ role during project-based learning?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Let's discuss the teachers' role during project-based learning experiences. Last month, I led an "introduction to PBL" workshop, and a teacher asked the following questions: What is the teachers' role during project-based learning? Is it possible to offer too much voice and choice? How much should students contribute to the project? How much should teachers contribute to the project? I know the responses to the questions shared are debatable because depending on who you listen to or what you read, the answer will vary...
2021-02-0815 minImpactful PBL PodcastHow to foster social-emotional skills via project-based learningLet's discuss the importance of social-emotional learning. While social-emotional learning is a vital part of development for everyone, I think we need to emphasize fostering social-emotional learning skills now more than ever. Our students are experiencing new learning environments, hearing and witnessing social injustices, political controversies, etc. Plus, many students are experiencing social isolation or a reduction in other support systems that they typically have access to at school. I've heard from several teachers that they have received very little training and are unsure if they're providing adequate support to students. In this episode, we will explore how to...
2021-01-2519 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.9] How can we utilize the Impactful PBL Roadmap to plan a unit?Hey, impact makers. This week, we are discussing the one component of project-based learning that most teachers either dread or don't want to spend the time doing, but it's vital. As an academic and instructional coach, I spent extensive time planning my daily work experiences. A solid work plan reduced overwhelm and kept my focus on the intended outcomes. During this episode, we will explore why planning is a necessary component of project-based learning and hear how to utilize the Impactful PBL Roadmap to plan a PBL unit.Tune in now to hear: W...
2020-12-1114 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.8] How can we choose an engaging PBL topic? Sharing 12 ideasDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Hey, impact makers. Many of you are becoming acclimated to the new normal of school. You have your schedule, routine, and logistics mastered. Or at least, you feel more comfortable with your new teaching life. Many of you are ready to put theory into practice and plan your first project-based unit, but you are stuck attempting to find an engaging project topic or theme. In this episode, we will explore how to discover a project topic that your students will enjoy and how to c...
2020-11-2711 minImpactful PBL PodcastHow to brainstorm ways for students to showcase their knowledge virtually during PBLHey impact makers. Students' ability to showcase their knowledge publicly is a valuable component of project-based learning. While most teachers agree that every project-based learning unit should culminate in a showcase, many find it challenging to brainstorm ideas for what that may look like in a hybrid, blended, or virtual learning environment. We will explore how students can still participate in a showcase regardless of their learning mode during this episode.Tune in now to hear:Why students need to share their knowledge publiclyHow to ensure that you have a suitable driving question E...
2020-11-1207 minImpactful PBL Podcast3 reasons why PBL is valuable in every learning settingHey impact makers. In episode 11, I shared why I believe that project-based learning is great for distance learning. And since that episode, I've coached more teachers who are implementing project-based learning in a blended learning environment. Yes, teachers are experiencing a different set of challenges with implementing project-based learning in a blended or distance learning environment. So the question becomes, Is it worth trying to implement PBL virtually? During this episode, we will explore why PBL is still valuable regardless of the learning setting.Tune in to hear:The challenges teachers are facing with i...
2020-10-2808 minImpactful PBL Podcast4 reasons teachers should join a professional learning networkHey impact makers, recently, I wrapped up a set of virtual professional development. It was an incredible experience because the teachers that I worked with were engaging and inspiring. I've led virtual training in the past, but never an extensive amount of virtual training where we worked together over a series of weeks. At the end of the training series, a teacher mentioned the desire to have ongoing access to a community of project-based teachers. I've engaged in several fellowships or cohort style professional learning communities, so I understand the impact of having access to a network. During this...
2020-10-1513 minImpactful PBL PodcastDo you have what it takes to implement PBL?Hey impact makers. Can you believe that we are halfway through the quarter? I previously shared that I've had several conversations about whether project-based learning could occur in a virtual learning format. Recently, a teacher shared that she was in a professional development session or class, and the facilitator stated that PBL wasn't for every teacher or every student. Since I'm a PBL advocate, the teacher wanted my perspective on the topic. During this episode, we will explore the question: Should some teachers avoid trying PBL in their classrooms? Do you have what it takes to implement PBL?
2020-10-0216 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.7] How can we use milestones to track students’ progress during PBL?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Hey impact makers. Last week, we explored some ideas to assess students during project-based learning, which, if done correctly, will help teachers monitor student's academic progress. I recently received questions from teachers who are implementing project-based learning in a blended learning environment requesting ideas for completing phase six of the Impactful PBL Roadmap, which is to track students' progress. As an educator, you know how important it is to monitor students' progress toward goals. During this episode, we will explore ways to track students...
2020-09-2308 minImpactful PBL Podcast6 shifts to consider when facilitating PBL in a remote learning formatHey impact makers. During episode 11, I shared why I believe project-based learning is great for blended & remote learning environments. Thus far, that episode is my most popular episode, so naturally, I received followed up questions and comments. I honestly believe that crafting high-performance project-based learning is achievable through in-person, remote, or blended learning environments. However, we must consider some changes or accommodations necessary to make the learning experience valuable. I don't want you to make the mistake of managing PBL in a remote or blended learning environment precisely as you would during face-to-face instruction. During this episode, we will ex...
2020-09-1610 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.6] How can we assess students during PBL experiences?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Hey impact makers. Recently, I met with a group of teachers to refine an upcoming project-based learning unit plan. We began discussing ways to assess students during the learning experience. One teacher expressed concerns about assigning grades or implementing assessments. The teacher wanted students to enjoy the process, and she didn't want them to earn low grades and become unmotivated or disinterested in projects. That is a valid concern. I responded, "How can we design an assessment process that prepares students for success?" In th...
2020-09-0910 minImpactful PBL Podcast4 things I learned about virtual learning (as a doctoral student)Like many places right now, where I live, students are learning remotely through a mix between asynchronous and synchronous methods. I've been working with teachers on implementing project-based learning in a virtual environment. Therefore, I've been encouraging teachers to design instruction while considering what students might be experiencing during remote learning. I began to reflect on my personal experience as a student learning remotely and facilitating professional development sessions virtually. In this episode, I share what I've learned as a remote learning student, how it may relate to students' experience, and how we can utilize this insight.
2020-09-0119 minImpactful PBL PodcastWhy project-based learning is great for blended & remote learningIt's back to school time. Let's start with admitting that school will look different this year for most teachers and students. I've heard about a variety of learning options that schools are considering for the 2020-2021 school year. Now many educators may be wondering...Can we still implement project-based learning in a remote learning environment? I think now is a good time to implement project-based learning. This month, we will explore strategies and brainstorm some ideas examining how to make this happen. In this episode, let's discuss why teachers should consider implementing project-based learning during blended or remote learning.
2020-08-0509 minImpactful PBL Podcast3 Myths about project-based learning professional developmentWe are wrapping up our monthly professional development series. This week I want to share some common mistakes that hinder teachers' effectiveness with implementing high-quality project-based learning experiences. Can you believe that approximately half of the teachers that attended my project-based learning workshops last year reported that they had engaged in PBL training before? Yet, they still found it challenging to create a PBL culture in their classroom. Let's explore some common mistakes I've seen teacher leaders make when attempting to transform their PBL instructional practices and what they should consider doing instead.Are you...
2020-07-2807 minImpactful PBL PodcastHow I'm treating my doctoral capstone like a PBL experienceWe are continuing with our summer professional development series, and we are discussing how to own your professional growth as an educator. Last week, I shared ten virtual professional learning options that teachers can engage in to further their growth. This week, I'm sharing how I'm treating my doctoral capstone research like a project-based learning experience, and how you can start viewing your Masters or Doctoral classes or other professional development opportunities the same way. Are you ready to become a high-impact project-based educator?[FREE] Download the Impactful PBL Roadmap™ plann...
2020-07-2109 minImpactful PBL Podcast10 Virtual Professional Development Options For TeachersI know that summer is technically your time off to relax and recharge, but it's also a great time to explore new ideas and instructional methods. When I was a math coach, I used the summers to explore new coaching techniques. I attended conferences to develop my skills and to meet new educators. Being around other educators who share similar interests and passions helped me stay inspired and motivated. The time you utilize to develop yourself beyond the mandatory school or district training will be beneficial. In this episode, we will explore how you can create a professional development...
2020-07-1411 minImpactful PBL PodcastHow can we maximize our professional development experience?This month, we are starting our summer professional development planning series. As a professional development facilitator, you know I'm an advocate for ongoing professional development because I believe learning never ends. we will discuss how to take charge or own your professional growth. In this episode, we will consider how you might be wasting your time, the facilitators' time, and possibly your colleagues' time during project-based learning professional development sessions and what you should be doing instead.Are you ready to become a high-impact project-based educator?[FREE] Download the Impactful...
2020-07-0910 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.5] How can we foster academic risk-taking?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.I've seen teachers become excited about implementing their PBL and launch their first unit to discover that students struggle to engage in this form of learning. Specifically, teachers often share how students struggle with brainstorming ideas, sharing ideas, creating questions to research, taking the initiative to work on tasks, etc. There are a variety of reasons why students may experience difficulty engaging in project-based learning experiences. In this episode, we will explore ten ways to foster academic risk-taking so you can create a learning...
2020-06-3006 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.4] How can we write a quality driving question for a PBL unit?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.When I lead in-person professional development, believe it or not, we spend a significant amount of time drafting the driving question for a project-based learning unit plan because it's the foundation of the project. In this episode, we will discuss the importance of drafting a quality driving question, explore example questions, and review how to write a driving question for PBL.In this episode, you will learn:Definition of a driving questionCharacteristics of a quality driving questionHow to...
2020-06-2305 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.3] What are the benefits of project-based learning?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.If you've been working in education for more than a year, you have probably heard of numerous instructional strategies from education researchers claiming to be the answer to increasing student mastery. Regardless of your perspective, project-based learning can allow students to practice and develop skills useful for the workforce. I believe that we're preparing students for jobs that may not yet exist. You're probably thinking, if these jobs don't exist yet, then how do we prepare students for the workforce? Project-based learning can positively...
2020-06-1605 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.2] What is project-based learning?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Discussing the difference between project-based assessments versus project-based learning is a popular topic among educators. Therefore, I have this conversation with educators often. I understand why this can be confusing because, for some time, 'doing projects' or project-based assessments, project-based learning, and problem-based learning were used interchangeably. This episode will discuss the difference between project-based assessments and project-based learning.In this episode, you will learn:The reason why teachers are confused about the difference between project-based assessments or 'doing...
2020-06-0906 minImpactful PBL Podcast[1.1] How can we create an impactful PBL experience?Do you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.In this episode, we will explore how to plan a high-quality project-based learning experience for students. You will find several planning methods because, as you know, educators plan differently based on what works for them. After training hundreds of teachers on planning and implementing project-based learning experiences, I've found success with the method I'm sharing. I call my planning method, the Impactful PBL Roadmap. I provide an overview of each step in this episode.In this episode, you will learn:How I...
2020-06-0213 minImpactful PBL PodcastIntroducing the Impactful PBL ShowDo you have a topic to suggest or insight to share? Text me.Introducing the Impactful PBL Podcast, a show for educators who want to explore how to plan a high-quality project-based learning experience for students. In this opening episode, Candice shares why she started this show, its’ purpose, and how she hopes it will help educators craft meaningful learning experiences for students.In this episode, you will learn:1:05 Who is Candice, the host, and why she started the Impactful PBL Podcast?2:30 What can you expect from this podcast?3:00 Is this podcast for you?5:00 How wi...
2020-05-2605 min