An accomplished academic professional, Kimberly L. Winters holds a bachelor's and master's degree from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. An educator within the Virginia School System, Kimberly L. Winters, possesses Advanced Placement Language and Project-Based Learning (PBL) certifications. Project-Based Learning Certification is administered by PBLWorks, an educational management firm that provides various tools and resources to K through 12 teachers. A teaching philosophy, PBL employs active engagement and meaningful projects to empower and instruct students. PBLWorks promotes two guidelines for educators that embrace the project-based learning model: project-based teaching practices and project-based design elements. Project-based design elements are backed by the evidence-based PBL model and have been proven to improve skills in areas ranging from critical thinking and problem solving to communication and collaboration. Project design elements at PBLWorks include a challenging question and sustained inquiry through a rigorous student engagement period. Moreover, real-world context is emphasized, as is the student’s ability to make choices and express their own ideas. Other elements include a period of reflection, critique, and public sharing. For additional information on PBL project design elements, visit www.pblworks.org.

1. Kimberly L. Winters

2. An accomplished academic professional, Kimberly L. Winters
holds a bachelor's and master's degree from James Madison
University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. An educator within the
Virginia School System, Kimberly L. Winters, possesses Advanced
Placement Language and Project-Based Learning (PBL)
certifications.

3. Project-Based Learning Certification is administered by PBLWorks,
an educational management firm that provides various tools and
resources to K through 12 teachers. A teaching philosophy, PBL
employs active engagement and meaningful projects to empower
and instruct students.

4. PBLWorks promotes two guidelines for educators that embrace the
project-based learning model: project-based teaching practices
and project-based design elements. Project-based design
elements are backed by the evidence-based PBL model and have
been proven to improve skills in areas ranging from critical
thinking and problem solving to communication and
collaboration.

5. Project design elements at PBLWorks include a challenging
question and sustained inquiry through a rigorous student
engagement period. Moreover, real-world context is emphasized,
as is the student’s ability to make choices and express their own
ideas. Other elements include a period of reflection, critique, and
public sharing. For additional information on PBL project design
elements, visit www.pblworks.org.