ABSTRACT

Many educators appreciate the value of interest-based learning, but struggle with the management and facilitation of individual and small-group projects in a limited space and time allocation. This easy-to-read guide:

  • Features a step-by-step plan for managing Genius Hour, passion projects, Makerspaces, and more.
  • Includes time-saving planning templates, checklists, and charts.
  • Supports students' intrinsic motivation for learning, agency, voice, and problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
  • Provides a systematic and practical approach to interest-based learning.
  • Can be implemented and adapted by an individual teacher, department, or team.


Chapters also include techniques for helping students identify their interests, frame their goals and questions, create project plans and timelines, self-assess their progress, and share their work with real-world audiences.

chapter |8 pages

Introduction

chapter Chapter 1|9 pages

Interest-Based Learning and Its Counterparts

chapter Chapter 2|11 pages

Ensuring a Strong Foundation

chapter Chapter 3|7 pages

Vision Making and Sharing

chapter Chapter 4|26 pages

Measuring the Impact of Interest-Based Learning

chapter Chapter 5|11 pages

Finding Interests

chapter Chapter 6|15 pages

Focusing Interests

chapter Chapter 7|15 pages

Developing an Action Plan

chapter Chapter 8|10 pages

Finding and Managing Resources

chapter Chapter 9|15 pages

Research, Development, and Design

chapter Chapter 10|7 pages

Developing Real-World Products

chapter Chapter 11|8 pages

Engaging Authentic Audiences

chapter Chapter 12|5 pages

Reflecting, Debriefing, and Celebrating