The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast 259: Making Project-Based Learning Accessible for Everyone
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Sep 14, 2025 John Spencer, a former middle school teacher and advocate for project-based learning, breaks down how to make PBL accessible for all students. He shares five impactful structural changes that schools can implement without overhauling existing systems. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accommodating diverse learner needs, including neurodivergent and multilingual students. With strategies such as using visual aids and structured roles in group work, Spencer highlights pathways to foster collaboration and critical thinking in inclusive classroom environments.
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Testing Week Documentary Success
- John Spencer turned a testing-week challenge into a documentary project on immigration with a noisy group of 27 students.
- The project built deep focus, collaboration, and pride despite many mistakes and low-stakes conditions.
Cut Cognitive Load To Unlock Learning
- Extraneous cognitive load can derail PBL by making students fixate on tasks instead of learning.
- Reducing load through phases, blueprints, progress bars, and protocols frees cognitive space for real learning.
Phase Projects And Show Progress
- Break projects into clear phases and give students a roadmap before they start.
- Use to-do lists with time estimates and early quick tasks to create momentum and visible progress.
