The Project Approach for All Learners

A Hands-On Guide for Inclusive Early Childhood Classrooms

Authors

• Sallee J. Beneke, Ph.D.
• Michaelene M. Ostrosky, Ph.D.
• Lilian G. Katz, Ph.D.

All rights reserved.

ISBN-13: 978-1-68125-228-5 ISBN-10: 1-68125-228-7

Contents

1. Getting Started With the Project Approach . 1
   Appendix Project Approach Implementation Checklist . 18

2. Defining the Role of the Teacher . 25

3. Implementing With Fidelity . 37

4. Supporting the Investigation . 63

5. Representing and Sharing Project Work . 87

6. Sustaining the Project Approach . 103

7. References . 117

8. Appendix A Completed Project Approach Implementation Checklists . 121

9. Appendix B Training Activities . 147

10. Index . 183

About the Authors

Sallee J. Beneke, Ph.D.

Professor, Director of the Master's in Early Childhood Education Program, St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa
Dr. Beneke’s educational background and research focus on the potential of the Project Approach to support high-quality inclusion in early childhood education.

Michaelene M. Ostrosky, Ph.D.

Grayce Wicall Gauthier Professor of Education, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Dr. Ostrosky has been involved in research on the inclusion of children with disabilities, social-emotional competence, and challenging behavior.

Lilian G. Katz, Ph.D.

Professor Emerita, Children’s Research Center, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Dr. Katz has lectured in all 50 states and in 43 countries and has authored more than 150 publications.

Preface

Some teachers in early childhood classrooms struggle to find ways to engage each child. This book provides practical tools for implementing the Project Approach, highlighting its effectiveness, especially for children with disabilities. The Project Approach involves engaging students in topics of high interest through in-depth investigation and research.

Getting Started With the Project Approach

The Project Approach helps educators implement inquiry-based learning. It includes three phases:

• Phase I: Introduce the topic and invite children to share what they already know.
• Phase II: Provide various activities to satisfy children's curiosity.
• Phase III: Reflect and share what was learned.

Examples of Project Implementation

Projects can vary based on children's interests. For example, during a project on bakeries, children might:

• Interview the baker
• Visit a bakery
• Observe ingredients

The Project Approach supports diverse learning by integrating children’s strengths and interests into classroom activities, enhancing their engagement and learning outcomes.

Evidence Base for the Project Approach

Research indicates that implementing the Project Approach increases children’s engagement, interest, and achievement across subjects such as math and language arts. Teachers report positive impacts on children's motivation and the need for fewer behavior management techniques.

Conclusion

The Project Approach guides teachers in fostering an inclusive classroom environment through engaging, meaningful project work. This chapter serves as an introduction to implementing the Project Approach effectively in diverse educational settings.