Project Based Learning and Service Learning w/ Laurence Myers

In this episode we dove into the world of international education with guest Laurence Myers, Service Learning Coordinator at the American School of Dubai. We explored the dynamic intersection of project-based learning (PBL), service learning, and systems thinking, highlighting the importance of real-world strategies in education. Laurance shared his experiences with innovative projects like the school’s beekeeping initiative and the challenges of shifting educational culture towards more student-centered approaches. He also discussed how educators can empower students to take ownership of their learning while building crucial skills like teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving.  Laurence emphasized the importance of creating authentic learning experiences that engage students beyond the classroom. The conversation touched on overcoming barriers to implementing PBL in different educational settings, as well as the vital role of soft skills development in preparing students for global citizenship. This episode offers valuable insights for educators looking to make a meaningful impact in their classrooms and beyond.  Episode Timestamps and Highlights: [2:41] Introduction of Laurence Myers [3:20] The Beekeeping Project: A Model for Real-World Learning - how a simple second-grade project evolved into a comprehensive beekeeping initiative at the American School of Dubai, engaging multiple grade levels and fostering community involvement [7:41] Opportunities vs Barriers [8:24] Changemaker Education [10:25] The Power of Project-Based and Service Learning: the significance of project-based learning and service learning in developing both technical and soft skills in students. [11:00] Teachers “Letting Go” to create Authentic Learning experiences [12:37] Building resilience [13:15] Promoting PBL in Secondary Education [14:45] Shifting Educational Culture Towards Innovation [16:28] How teachers can implement PBL in environments resistant to change [20:12] Implementing PBL takes time and commitment [21:27] ASD as a leader in PBL [23:18] Present and Future Benefits of PBL for students [25:55] The Impact of PBL on education around the world Notable quotes: "Our philosophy as a school is, don’t hold yourself back—let things go, let things flow. Build it, and they will come."  "We often don’t allow kids to struggle enough to be resilient.”  "It’s hugely important for a school to actually put resources into this space not just a title somewhere to say we’re doing it.”  Check out the course related to this episode! UDL, PBL, & Service Learning Connect with Laurence LinkedIn: Laurence Myers  Website: Laurence Myers Educational Services  Connect with Celiah LinkedIn: ⁠Celiah Bunsie⁠  Connect With Katlyn Darling https://www.linkedin.com/in/katlyn-darling-7019558a/ Connect With Dana Specker Watts  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/danaspeckerwatts/⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠https://x.com/teachwatts⁠⁠ Connect With Mike LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-pierre/⁠ More Resources Head over iss.idu to check out ISS website for events and more. Sign up for Moreland University to elevate your career as an educator at www.moreland.edu Join the community of professional educators considering the role of inclusion in the classroom culture at seniainternational.org Check out inspirecitizens who inspire schools to live their mission of global citizenship at inspirecitizens.org The ISS EDUlearn® Passport is the ultimate subscription for your professional development. Try it out now: ⁠https://lnkd.in/gqytehA3⁠