Protocol Overview and Instructions: 
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I tried a modified version of the “Postcards” strategy as a way to get to know my students at the beginning of a new trimester.  While the original strategy calls for postcards, I used postcards and images from old magazines because postcards are difficulty to find.  I found that the strategy was successful in building classroom culture, encouraging open discussion, and getting students to engage with the class as a whole. The most challenging part was obtaining enough postcards/images - AKA the prep work.  Other than that, the strategy went smoothly.


Protocol for Post Card Protocol:
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Educator Thoughts:
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I tried a modified version of the “Postcards” strategy as a way to get to know my students at the beginning of a new trimester.  While the original strategy calls for postcards, I used postcards and images from old magazines because postcards are difficulty to find.  I found that the strategy was successful in building classroom culture, encouraging open discussion, and getting students to engage with the class as a whole. The most challenging part was obtaining enough postcards/images - AKA the prep work.  Other than that, the strategy went smoothly.

This strategy was new to me, so I wasn’t sure what to expect.  Overall, students felt that it was fun and engaging because pictures were involved - they sure do like to use visuals even at the high school level.
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Student Quote:
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“This was different because usually we are asked to draw an image to represent ourselves, but I am not good at drawing so I prefer using someone else’s drawing to talk about myself”.  

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Meet the Educator:

Alexa Spruit, Hamilton High School
     
I am an 11th year social studies teacher at Hamilton High School.  I have been experimenting with PBL / design thinking for 6 years.  I have participated in the iChallengeU program three times - all with unique and wonderful experiences.   I will be completing my second year of the FuturePrep’d Academy this winter.  Overall I have found PBL to be invigorating for my teaching career - it has helped me find ways to channel my creativity and the creativity of my students and keep motivated in the classroom.   Prior to my experience with PBL, I was feeling teacher burnout.  Learning these new strategies has brought energy back to my classroom.

“Using PBL in my classroom has sparked fun, engagement, and creativity.  I find that the protocols are well-liked by students and help to keep my lessons more diverse and interesting.”