The University of Montana 3rd Annual ECE Summit

**ECP Credit Available** https://www.mtecpregistry.mtecp.org/register.aspx?evid=525302

Session Description
In this session, we will explore the three types of assessment (of, for, as learning) in an early childhood context. We will discuss ways to assess four key aspects of learning in a PBL classroom - content, product development, final products, and learning processes.. Throughout the session, we will create a toolbox of developmentally appropriate assessment strategies. We will practice identifying formative assessment opportunities in a sample project and offer tips for intentionally adding ideas when developing an initial project outline.

Attend this session to

• gain a comprehensive understanding of the concept of assessments of learning, assessments for learning, and assessments as learning
• create a toolbox of developmentally appropriate assessment strategies, inclusive of self-assessments and reflection
• discuss how to use assessment information to guide instruction and enhance student learning outcomes with young children

** ECP Credit Available **  https://www.mtecpregistry.mtecp.org/register.aspx?evid=525301
Session Description:
In this session, we’ll explore what Project Based Learning (PBL) is—and isn’t—by comparing it to other common early childhood instructional approaches. Learn our unique planning process that leverages student interests, integrates key content, and fosters Social and Emotional Learning, all through our ECPBL planning outline. We'll share strategies for connecting your curriculum, sustaining student inquiry, and designing projects tailored to your learners. You'll leave with practical tools to bring meaningful, engaging projects to your classroom. A perfect session if you are relatively new to PBL.
Attend this Session to:

• Understand the similarities and differences between common early childhood instructional approaches and Project Based Learning (PBL).
• Explore strategies to integrate existing curricula and schedules into an EC PBL framework, ensuring alignment with current practices.
• Develop techniques for sustaining inquiry throughout a project by redefining the concept of "research" and identifying opportunities for content and skill integration.
• Gain the skills to envision and design projects tailored to the unique needs and interests of your community of learners.

**ECP Credit Available** https://www.mtecpregistry.mtecp.org/register.aspx?evid=525423


Session Description
In this session, we will explore the three types of assessment (of, for, as learning) in an early childhood context. We will discuss ways to assess four key aspects of learning in a PBL classroom - content, product development, final products, and learning processes.. Throughout the session, we will create a toolbox of developmentally appropriate assessment strategies. We will practice identifying formative assessment opportunities in a sample project and offer tips for intentionally adding ideas when developing an initial project outline.

Attend this session to:

• gain a comprehensive understanding of the concept of assessments of learning, assessments for learning, and assessments as learning
• create a toolbox of developmentally appropriate assessment strategies, inclusive of self-assessments and reflection
• discuss how to use assessment information to guide instruction and enhance student learning outcomes with young children

**ECP Credit Available**https://www.mtecpregistry.mtecp.org/register.aspx?evid=525310

Session Description
In this session, we will dispel the common misconception that young children must be fluent readers and writers to fully participate in Project Based Learning. We will broaden our definition of literacy, to include meaning making and inquiry alongside reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language development. As a community of learners, we will identify purposeful literacy structures that are crucial for emergent and early literacy instruction as we build a holistic view of literacy that can be developed through Project Based Learning. We will use collaboration and critical thinking to identify opportunities for utilizing purposeful literacy structures, stand alone lessons, and skill development activities in early childhood project plans. 


Session Outcomes
Workshop Outcomes/Attend this workshop to: 

• Embrace a more holistic definition of literacy, integrating meaning-making with reading, writing, speaking, listening, inquiry, and language development in the context of PBL.
• Collaboratively identify purposeful literacy structures crucial for emergent and early literacy.
• Learn how to intentionally plan meaningful, comprehensive literacy-rich learning experiences within a PBL unit.
• Engage with fellow educators to share best practices for early childhood PBL.