The project approach to learning engages students' natural bent for discovery through observation, play, hands-on tasks, and real-world challenges. Project-based learning complements systematic instruction in basic skills by making discrete bits of information relevant. Teachers must design projects that provide enough latitude for student…

Idaho secondary students learn the scientific method through outdoor environmental projects related to water quality monitoring. A program trains teachers to design project-based learning and provides extensive followup support. Five-day summer workshops immerse teachers in the types of projects they will orchestrate with their own students.…

The estuary at the mouth of the Columbia River in Wahkiakum County Washington) provides a natural laboratory for experiential learning. Wahkiakum High School students participate in interdisciplinary projects that have included habitat restoration, a salmon hatchery, stream restoration, tree planting, and recreating the final leg of the Lewis and…

In this interview, Alaska's statewide trainer in project-based learning recommends that teachers plan projects by identifying the desired results, determining acceptable evidence, then planning the learning experience. Project-based learning encourages teacher collaboration and engages students so that learning becomes relevant. Teachers should…

An alternative school in southern Oregon that allows students to make up missing credits offers project-based thematic classes that take students outside the school. One course studied the Klamath Basin's water crisis and involved exploring the area and the perspectives of farmers, biologists, park rangers, and Native Americans. Courses culminate…

Descriptions of students projects raising chickens and studying salmon illustrate how project-based learning engages high-risk Alaska Native students. Projects make learning relevant, involve the community, increase student self-esteem, and help students and teachers bond with each other. A 4-day workshop for teachers emphasized how projects must…

Applications of project-based learning are illustrated by examples of projects involving music, art, history, a partnership with a hospital, Native American plant remedies, roller coaster design, and making a "talking book" (CD-ROM) in English and Lushootseed (language of the Tulalip Tribes). Project learning can meet standards while involving…

Research suggests that after-school programs reduce juvenile crime and risky behavior; increase confidence, academic performance, and social skills; and build positive adult-child and home-school relationships. The need for supervised after-school activities, especially in poor neighborhoods; the characteristics of successful programs; and the…

A 4-H skateboard club in Bozeman, Montana offers kids community service and educational opportunities as well as something to do after school. Adult and college-student volunteers teach a skateboarding curriculum and help kids fix boards and design ramps. Club members have learned public speaking, fundraising, city planning, and civic involvement…

The goal of the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers program is to provide academic enrichment opportunities and youth development activities for children attending low-performing schools. A look at several rural and urban programs in Oregon and Washington reveals that successful programs mesh with the school culture and partner with…

Homework may boost academic achievement, involve parents in their children's schoolwork, and teach students to study independently. However, critics claim that homework increases family conflict, limits independent learning, and widens the achievement gap. After-school homework clubs help students whose home life doesn't support getting help from…

A science teacher at a Portland (Oregon) parochial school has made the school a major contender at local, state, and national science fairs. He instills confidence in his students through high expectations. Science projects are 25 percent of a student's grade, and through public presentation of findings, they learn public speaking skills and…

A Seattle (Washington) initiative is dedicated to building a system for out-of-school care, especially for low income, minority families. In this interview, the program coordinator describes how area out-of-school providers cooperated to train staff, train trainers, and elevate the field to a profession. Major issues that affect program quality…

This document contains the four issues of Northwest Education published from fall 2000 through summer 2001. Issue themes are: (1) "New Moves: PE Reinvents Itself" (Fall 2000); (2) "Think Small: Making Education More Personal" (Winter 2000); (3) "The Wild Blue Yonder: Charter Schools Fly into the Unknown" (Spring 2001); and (4) "Designs for…

This journal examines promising approaches to supporting beginning teachers. It contains the following articles: "Facing the Future" (Suzie Boss), which discusses meeting the need for qualified teachers by using fresh ideas such as better support for novices and more training for mentors; "Building a Teacher's 'Repertoire' Takes Time, Training"…