The Iowa BIG model allows students to learn standards, gain 21st-century skills, and earn credits in English, social studies, and business through community-driven passion projects focused on topics and initiatives students are interested in.
Students get to experience what core subject areas look like in real-life situations by conducting research and giving presentations to community or business partners. The projects are tied to rigorous academic standards that prepare students to succeed. Iowa BIG is designed to give students agency to manage the time, space, assessment, and curriculum they need to learn. They are responsible for scheduling and managing their work time.
They learn the most effective places for them to work, think, and play. Standards are addressed through seminars and by demonstrating content knowledge within projects. In conjunction with their teachers, students assess themselves and make steps towards ongoing improvement. To date, Iowa BIG has had 1, students participate in the program across four districts and one affiliate site.
Additionally, a study found that students who participated in Iowa BIG were more likely to report that they were focused and engaged in their learning during the community projects as opposed to traditional school.
Project-based learning PBL is a vehicle for teaching content and skills using student-centered practices and real-world contexts. The CAPS model provides real-world, profession-based learning opportunities through collaborations with business and community partners to prepare students for college and career. The Center for Advanced Professional Studies CAPS integrates high school, college, and career into a single seamless community where students can explore pathways while working with professionals on real-world projects.
