Middle School Program

Project based learning is a student-centered pedagogy that involves a dynamic classroom approach in which it is believed that students acquire a deeper knowledge through active exploration of real-world challenges and problems. Students learn about a subject by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to a complex question, challenge, or problem. Project based learning is contrasts with paper-based, rote memorization, or teacher-led instruction that presents established facts or portrays a smooth path to knowledge by instead posing questions, problems or scenarios. Thomas Markham (2011) describes project-based learning (PBL) thus: “PBL integrates knowing and doing. Students learn knowledge and elements of the core curriculum, but also apply what they know to solve authentic problems and produce results that matter. James G. Greeno (2006) has associated project-based learning with the “situated learning” perspective and with the constructivist theories of Jean Piaget. Blumenfeld et al. elaborate on the processes of Project based learning: “Project-based learning is a comprehensive perspective focused on teaching by engaging students in investigation.

Through the affiliation with AKU-EB, MFF has abandoned the conventional methods of teaching and has adapted project based teaching methods. A prominent example is the Middle School Program (MSP) that supports and ensures child centered learning and teaching, provision of opportunity to perform team and collaborative work ensuring the learning of children with special needs along with all learners. This MSP program helped students to connect with real world situation through collaboration and engagement, hereby developing independent critical thinkers. Students are able to know their weaknesses through different form of assessment thereby making themselves independently responsible for their learning. The Examination board offers (MSP) middle school projects for middle section to facilitate the students higher order cognitive skills and desire competencies through a process of engaging students in interdisciplinary project.