This one-day event is designed to re-ignite a collaborative Project-Based, Problem-Based, and Place-Based Learning (3P) network across the region.

Project-based learning can seem daunting at first. How do you tie it to the standards and still keep it authentic? What do you do when one student seems to do all of the work? How do you support students who need additional scaffolding?

As educators, we can be proactive in designing projects by incorporating structures and protocols to facilitate student self-direction. By integrating design thinking as a creative framework, students become more empowered in the PBL process. PBL is the student-centered instructional model. Design thinking is the authentic creative thinking model all around the world. Combine these and you have an authentic, student-centered PBL experience.

John Spencer, keynote speaker and former middle school teacher and current full-time professor, will delve into the power of PBL by Design and incorporate themes of student voice and choice and PBL for all students. He is the author of multiple books including Launch: Using Design Thinking to Boost Creativity and Bring Out the Maker in Every Student, Empower: What Happens When Students Own Their Learning, and Vintage Innovation: Leveraging Retro Tools and Classic Ideas to Design Deeper Learning Experiences.

Through interactive sessions and dedicated networking time, this summit aims to:

• Foster a Community of Practice: Cultivate a vibrant network of educators who share a passion for PBL by Design. Connect with colleagues, share best practices, and build lasting connections that encourage ongoing collaboration.
• Learn from a Master: Gain invaluable insights from renowned PBL expert John Spencer as he delves into the power of PBL by Design.
• Spark Collaboration: Break the ice and build rapport through interactive sessions and dedicated networking opportunities. Discuss real-world challenges, brainstorm innovative solutions, and initiate partnerships that inspire continued learning and support beyond the summit.

Details:

• Date: September 24, 2024
• Time: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
• Location: Eberhard Center, GVSU
• Cost: $20 (includes lunch)

Register

This event is hosted by the MiSTEM Network's Greater West Michigan Region, along with a team of staff from Ottawa Area ISD futurePREP'd, Muskegon Area ISD 3P Learning, Kent ISD STEM, Grand Rapids Public Museum, and GVSU Groundswell Stewardship Initiative.

The West Michigan PBL Network is a group of educators, representing Allegan, Kent, Muskegon and Ottawa Areas, who want to bring industry and relevance into our classrooms.  By using Design Thinking and Project Based Learning, we hope to give our students opportunities to solve real challenges and fine-tune their 21st Century Skills.  Along with this, our goal is to continue to work together to make each educator better and to help more students become ready for their next steps.

West Michigan PBL Network Website

The West Michigan PBL Network website is a resource for educators to explore projects being implemented in the Greater West Michigan Region of the MiSTEM Network.  The website is constantly growing and currently houses over 150 projects!