Problem-Based Learning

Most of us know that we want to create as many real-world examples in class as is possible; however, this is definitely easier said than done. Sometimes we think we are creating a unit that will "make" the students step out of their comfort zone and create something new. Alas, we discover that this isn't often the case. This same situation happens to me more than I care to admit. This week I learned a process for developing problem-based learning, and that process (though hard to grasp at first) really opened my eyes to how I've done this before. Before I started the process, I wanted to develop something that I could use in my classroom as well. I teach a unit on disabilities to one grade while teaching the Holocaust to the other. The Holocaust unit already has a webquest that I created several years ago. Therefore, I wanted them to match. What I developed has a sibling having to help the entire family move to their dream location while helping a special needs brother settle in as well. All members of the family need to find jobs, go to school, etc. The kicker is that the brother doesn't want to move, and the family can live rent-free for one year which will help them pay off their house.

I'm also going to create a "Life After College" spreadsheet activity for my computer class. The students are all college graduates that need to find a job and a place to live while being able to pay their bills. They will create a budget for a year, and have to decide if they can cut it where they want to go. This idea was hatched by my husband's employees (some don't realize how much cost of living is).

Both activities will be implemented within the next month. I expect that some of my students will be surprised that all communities don't have areas designed for special needs people, and not all jobs pay enough for a person to live on their own. Any thoughts for me?