Participants are provided an overview of how Project Lead The Way (PLTW) APB (activity-, project-, and problem-based) instructional approach can be used to scaffold student learning and develop relevant STEM learning experiences. APB learning engages students in hands-on activities as they build knowledge and skills that can be applied to real world problems. Projects give students an opportunity to make meaning of their learning and investigate concepts in ways that require them to assimilate the knowledge and skills developed through activities and also from their prior knowledge. Problems call for students to apply and transfer the knowledge and skills as they design a solution to an open-ended problem.
Participants will also have an opportunity to engage in Rosie's Runtime, an unplugged computer science activity from PLTW Launch, that gives students an introduction to computer science through an interactive game that rivals recess. Using a life-sized game board and code cards, students direct Rosie the Robotic Dog through a maze. This activity introduces them to the way computers think by putting precise commands into the correct sequence to create a working program. As they help Rosie jump over mud puddles and get her bones, students have opportunities to learn from failed attempts by finding and fixing bugs in their program.
Attendees can access a free download of the Rosie's Runtime activity to use in their classrooms right away and employ PLTW APB approach to learning.
