160: Project-Based Learning in Early Childhood Education: Overcoming Misconceptions and Reaching Success with Sara Lev, Erin Starkey, and Amanda Clark

In this episode of the podcast, we delve into the world of project-based learning (PBL) with three experts in the field: Sara Lev, Erin Starkey, and Amanda Clark. These educators, facilitators, and authors bring their wealth of knowledge and experience to the table to discuss the misconceptions and challenges of implementing PBL in early childhood education.

The conversation began with an introduction of the guests, Amanda Clark, Erin Starkey, and Sara Lev. They are all educators and authors who specialize in project-based learning. We learn about how they came together to develop a workshop for their colleagues at PBLWorks (formerly the Buck Institute for Education or BIE) and how that workshop eventually became a book, Implementing Project Based Learning in Early Childhood: Overcoming Misconceptions and Reaching Success.

Throughout the episode, the guests explore various misconceptions surrounding PBL in early childhood education, such as the idea that PBL is not appropriate for young children or that it is too difficult to integrate with other subjects. They also discuss the importance of sustained inquiry and the role of literacy in PBL.

At the end of the episode, we challenge our listeners to share their thoughts and ideas from the conversation on social media, using the handle @ec_pbl. We also provide several resources for those interested in learning more about PBL in early childhood education, including the book, website, and social media accounts of the guests.

So, tune in to this engaging conversation and discover how you can overcome misconceptions and reach success with PBL in early childhood education.

Direct Link: Episode: https://coffeechug.simplecast.com/episodes/160

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TOPICS WE EXPLORE

All profiles can be found here

Who is Amanda Clark?
Who is Erin Starkey?
Who is Sara Lev?
How did the three of these awesome people come together?
Erin Starkey Misconceptions on PBL and Literacy
1. Power words: Perception and Permission
Sara Lev Misconceptions on PBL and Integration
1. Pressure of foundation skills and “catching students up”
2. Three layers to consider
Amanda Clark Misconceptions on PBL and Sustained Inquiry
1. Inquiry, Investigation, Experimentation
2. Field Trips vs. Field Work
The power of being seen as an early childhood educator from the leaders
Power of not dismissing the misconceptions, but embracing and working forward to create solutions
Universal ideas from this work to all learners