Theory

The Project Approach evolved from a desire to help students participate in and contribute to a democratic society. Studies indicate that democratic societies are more likely to flourish when citizens seek an in-depth understanding of the complex issues they must address and about which they must make choices and decisions.

Situated within a Constructivist-based theoretical framework, the Project Approach rests on the following beliefs:

•    All children come to school with a quest to understand their experiences; all children want to learn.

•    School is life, and teachers and students should experience their time in school as real life rather than seeing these two as separate and unrelated spheres.

•    Students construct their own knowledge but also need teachers to facilitate and guide this process.

•    Students have diverse strengths, weaknesses, interests, and backgrounds, and capitalizing on these differences enables students to learn from each other and to grow as individuals.

•    Students learn best when they have a positive self esteem and sense of purpose.

•    Students learn through a mixture of first-hand observation, hands-on experience, systematic instruction, and personal reflection.

•    Teaching and learning are interactive processes.

•    Social and emotional skills are as important as academic skills and knowledge.

•    Classrooms are flexible learning spaces that support and adapt to student needs.

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