To learn more about PBL visit the Buck Institute for Education.

Project Based Learning

The Watershed Classroom is grounded in the Project Based Learning (PBL) model of education. PBL is an inquiry driven approach to education that develops critical thinking skills and engages students in hands-on learning activities that are practical and relevant. The key elements of PBL are...

Key Knowledge, Understanding, and Success Skills - The project is goals focused and included standards-based content
Challenging Problem or Question - The project is framed by a meaningful problem.
Sustained Inquiry - Students engage in a process of asking questions and applying information.
Authenticity - The project features real-world context, tasks and tools.
Student Voice & Choice - Students make some decisions about the project.
Reflection - Students and teachers reflect on learning, the effectiveness of their inquiry.
Critique & Revision - Students give, receive, and use feedback to improve their process and products.
Public Product - Students make their project work public.

Watershed Classroom

Watershed Classroom supports the implementation of exceptionally engaging curriculum about the Petaluma River and Watershed to educate youth in Petaluma about their place in our environment, how their decisions and actions affect their environment and inspire youth to conserve and celebrate the Petaluma Watershed.