Thursday, July 02, 2015

STEAM PBL: Upside Down Bell Curve


STEAM PBL (science, tech, engineering, art, and math project/problem based learning) creates disruption in a typical classroom as students move from the enthusiastic start to challenging problem solving, creativity, and project work. Every time I embark on STEAM PBL, I notice a similar upside down bell curve motion which means we start strong, dip dramatically about midway through the project and then move back up with responsive coaching to a mostly successful end.

Do you notice a similar flow with regard to project based learning? Have you read about this? If so, what have you learned about this upside down bell curve movement? Is this the general flow of most new ideas, innovation, and invention?

I now it's not as clean as this, but I believe that if you expect the "upside down bell curve" roll out, you'll be better able to coach your young students ahead as they collaborate to create, problem solve, and innovate? Do you agree?