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Project-based learning is a unique type of pedagogy that moves beyond the traditional “memorize and regurgitate information” approach that is commonly seen in classrooms today. Project-based learning brings relevancy and practical application to the lesson, by making students active participants, rather than mere bystanders. Although project-based learning is still used on a relatively limited basis today, there are a number of reasons why educators might want to consider incorporating this methodology into their classrooms.

In this video, a teenager explains project-based learning.

A Definition of Project-Based Learning

According to the , project-based learning involves students coming together in groups or working individually to explore real-world problems. Through their explorations, students create presentations that sum up what they learned and their proposed solutions to those problems. Teachers in project-based learning classrooms serve as facilitators and guides, helping students find answers to questions without spoon-feeding the answers directly to them.

The website explains that project-based learning comes from the belief that students learn best by becoming active participants in the education process. The methodology involves the following:

• Students using knowledge learned to tackle problems experienced in the real world
• Students exercising more control over their learning environment
• Students typically working in groups or pairs, although individual projects can also be used
• Teachers serving as coaches to encourage student reflection and problem-solving skills

Project-based learning is similar to problem-based learning, which

While most students anticipate summer break as a time to let down and recharge, others spend the summer months planning ways to get ahead during the next academic year. For those over-achievers, there are many options to choose from, between summer school opportunities and accelerated programs once the regular school year rolls around. If you are a student looking for fast-track opportunities, or a parent of one of those ambitious students, we have the tips you are looking for to get a step up on the high school years.

This video offers some tips for time management and organization.

Advanced Placement

This tried and true program offers high-pressure demands and challenges comparable to a college-level course. So why undertake Advanced Placement classes in high school? According to the , Advanced Placement, also known as AP, offers a myriad of benefits to high school students, including:

• The ability to pick and choose the subjects for acceleration
• The chance to impress prospective colleges
• The opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school

Currently, there are more than 30 AP subjects available, although the options may vary from high school to high school. If you excel at writing, an AP English course may be a perfect choice. Math gurus may prefer an AP math class, while aspiring scientists can find AP courses in biology, chemistry or physics. Even history buffs will find a

If you are looking for a way to keep your kids in the learning game this summer, there are many fun options to choose from. Summer camps, whether scheduled for a day or a week, are an excellent opportunity for students to explore subjects and embark on an adventure during the summer season. Camps may be held during the day, or consist of consecutive overnights to give participants a true feel for the camping experience. With subjects ranging from science to performing arts, you are sure to find a camp your child will love.

Benefits of Summer Camp

According to the website, there are many benefits children may enjoy from attending a summer camp, including:

• Unique experience helps children broaden social skills
• Embarking on new activities builds self-esteem
• Opportunity to form long-lasting friendships
• Learn important skills like leadership and communication
• Teaches children resiliency and responsibility
• Additional physical activity provides health benefits

This video explains the benefits of summer camp.

With many advantages to be gained from attending a camp this summer, the next question for parents becomes how to choose the best camp for their child’s needs. Fortunately, there are a number of resources available to help parents make the best choice for their kids.

Choosing a Summer Camp

The recommends beginning the selection process by asking the following questions:

• What do you want your child to take away from the

According to a new study, cyberbullying is becoming a prevalent problem at high schools across the country. Researchers also found that teenagers are spending more of their free time online than ever before, which could play a role in the increase in cyberbullying noted in the study. For parents and teachers, the news is concerning since most are unaware of precisely what goes on between students through texting and online social networking. Awareness of the problem is just the first step in protecting students from electronic bullying and the sometimes tragic consequences that can result.

The study was performed by researchers at Cohen Children’s Medical Center of New York and presented recently to the Pediatric Academic Societies annual meeting in Washington, D.C. According to a report in , researchers analyzed data from the 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, which involved more than 15,000 students at public and private high schools across the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducts a survey every two years to monitor high-risk behaviors that lead to death, disability, and social problems. This is the first time the survey included questions about cyberbullying.

This video describes ten forms of cyberbullying.

White Female Students Most Common Victims of Cyberbullying

According to a report in the , the new study found that 16 percent of high school students have been victims of cyberbullying in

Summer learning loss is a concern for parents and teachers alike, as research further documents the reality of this trend. The cites research spanning 100 years that consistently shows students score lower on standardized tests at the end of summer vacation than they do on those same examinations before summer break begins. Evidence also points to the fact that summer learning loss contributes significantly to the widening achievement gap between low-income and middle-income students as they progress through school. What can parents do to prevent this trend with their own children? Check out these ten summer options to keep your kids learning all summer long.

Talk to Your Child’s Teacher

A report at advises parents to talk to their child’s teacher prior to the end of the school year to get recommendations on material to cover over the summer. The teacher can alert you to potential gaps in your child’s learning that you can work to fill during the break. Some teachers will even have reading lists or workbook selections that would benefit your child’s summer learning program most.

This video offers parents some tips for summer learning.

The Summer Reading Adventure

Local libraries are a boon to parents and kids over the summer months. Many have summer reading programs, complete with enticing prizes if kids read a certain number of books or log