Project-Based Learning
Amy M. Burns presents the approach of Project-Based Learning (PBL) in the elementary music classroom. The PBL approach focuses on the students learning the skills of research and problem-solving by answering essential questions over a period of time. Burns and Cherie Herring contributed to the PBL activities. In addition, they also address the process of Design Thinking, where students problem-solve solutions using the method of empathizing, defining, ideating, creating a prototype, testing, and going through the process again to redefine and improve. Burns and Herring demonstrate how PBL and DT can span across the curriculum, while still keeping music at the core of the learning process in the music classroom. The projects are versatile and can be used in young to older elementary classrooms from one device in the classroom to a 1:1 classroom.