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Instructional Coaching: Developing Efficacy For Project-Based Learning, Klista L. Rader

Theses and Dissertations--Educational Leadership Studies

Project-based learning is a method of instruction utilizing techniques of brainstorming, research, and problem-solving. When learning in project-based environments, students work collaboratively and receive feedback from an authentic audience of knowledgeable and experienced professionals. Although these instructional methods are beneficial for student learning, they conflict with traditional instructional practices. Although teachers in a rural Missouri school district received professional development for incorporating project-based learning, they expressed feelings of confusion, uncertainty, and decreased competency when relinquishing traditional instructional methods. These feelings are indicative of low levels of self-efficacy that can negatively influence the degree to which new instructional methods are implemented …