PBL with Technology

This week we read 6 chapters in two textbooks. The primary focus was problem-based learning. I must say that I am apprehensive about implementing problem-based learning in a public school environment. I am concerned about losing precious instructional time that is needed to meet the demands of a standards based classroom. "Supporting Learning with Technology: Essentials of Classroom Practice" by Joy Egbert addressed my apprehension. I do not need to have a classroom solely based in PBL but enhanced by PBL projects. The advantages of PBL is that students can use higher level critical thinking skills to address real-world issues. Students can extend these critical thinking skills to other classrooms and the world at large. In a work environment these thinking skills are desirable and important to problem solving. I was also relieved to find that many activities I already use are considered PBL activities. Technology lends itself to increasing PBL activities in the classroom. I have noticed that many students are not comfortable with questions that do not have a correct answer and it takes time to draw students out. The classroom environment must be respectful and feel safe for students to participate with their opinions and thought processes.