The Teacher's Role

TL;DR

Teachers are essential partners in implementing programs that combine real-world project-based learning (PBL) with work-based learning (WBL). These programs are integrated into CTE, science, and core instructional classes, serving as assignments for students to work on real-world projects, ranging from 1-hour warm-ups to multi-week activities. Teachers act as mentors, advisors, and monitors, providing grades based on program completion, effort, or milestones. Programs are highly customizable, allowing tailored connections to local, national, or global employers and enabling students to explore career pathways, tools, deliverables, and skills. Students can also design their own programs within teacher-defined guidelines, bridging education with practical applications for internships, portfolios, and future careers.

Detailed Breakdown

Direct Partners

Teachers collaborate directly with PilotCity and their schools, districts, or county offices to implement programs.

CTE and Beyond

Teachers are primarily from CTE, science, and core instructional pathways, covering diverse subjects and courses.

Project Assignment

Programs are integrated into class assignments, combining PBL and WBL outcomes for students.

Duration

Programs range from 1+ minute to 1+ month.

Recommended: 1-hour warm-up for brainstorming project ideas, escalating to 1+ week programs for project building (e.g., portfolios, internships).

Role

Teachers act as project advisors and mentors, monitoring participants and providing grades.

Grading

Flexible grading options: based on program completion, activity milestones, or effort, at the teacher's discretion.

Implementation Plan includes:

1. Sponsor Link:
   Custom landing pages for implementation, student onboarding & programs
2. Warm-Up Program:
   A 1-hour onboarding session to introduce students to brainstorming.
3. Program Options:
   • Duration: 1+ week to 1+ month
   • Employer Selection
     • Pathway-Specific Employers (e.g., Ag, IT, Biotech)
     • Local (City, Region, Statewide)
     • Non-local (National, Global)
4. Project Scopes:
   Teachers and students can customize program scopes based on:
   • Careers: Career pathways explored.
   • Tools: Tools used for projects.
   • Deliverables: Work products created.
   • Skills: Skills applied during the project.
   • Problems: Real-world challenges addressed.
   • Jobs: Job opportunities tied to the project.
   • Goals: Objectives achieved.
   • Users: Target customers or users.
   • Strengths: Student strengths leveraged.
   • Passions: Activities students love doing.
5. Student-Designed Programs:
   Students can create their own programs, adhering to teacher-defined scope parameters.