Chapter 3. Authorizing the reader in the classroom
This chapter describes the project approach (Katz & Chard, 2000). In-depth learning through projects involves actively relating the new to the familiar through a three phase process. In Phase 1, the recall of significant aspects of a literary reading can be facilitated by the sharing of personal experiences of the text. This leads to appreciation of the relevance of these experiences, perhaps as topics in their own lives. In discussion, or Phase 2, questions are raised and researched, where new understanding emerges. In Phase 3, the new information is combined into a group response. When students learn collaboratively through the project approach, they typically report deeper levels of personal involvement and satisfaction as well as greater understanding and depth of knowledge than when asked to learn by other means.