Sunday, October 12, 2014

Learning from our Problems

"The majority see the obstacles; the few see the objectives; history records the successes of the latter, while oblivion is the reward of the former."
— Alfred Armand Montapert

Leaders who Solve Problems

Benjamin Franklin is a well know historian for initiating many programs in early america to improve the lives of many.  He was a leader, he was a problem solver, he is a legacy. As a society, we remember, record, and document the lives of individuals who defined problems and found solutions.  The desire for people who can help us is evident.

As an agricultural educator, we are responsible for developing critical thinking and problem solving youth to become mature, contributing citizens of the american and global society.  The question is, how can we accomplish this?

Early leaders in agricultural education (Dewey and Lancelot)  have already answered the question; Problem Based Learning.  Problem based learning encourages students to explore and inquire into a guided problem.  

Personally, I am really excited for the opportunity to encourage students to take ownership of a problem and solve.  For one, I will be more excited and passionate about the day's lesson plan.  Secondly, my students will be more engaged.  Thirdly, students will incorporate skills that will be used for the rest of their lives.

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