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A Visual, Step-by-Step Guide for Re-Envisioning Rigor: Powerful Routines for Promoting Rigorous Problem- and Project-Based Learning offers a practical roadmap for teachers who want to make every day of learning count-whether leading full-scale projects or embedding high-level thinking into daily lessons. Designed to support meaningful learning from launch to final reflection, this book provides clear, actionable routines that elevate instruction and empower students. The routines require students to think, reason, and problem-solve at high levels every day.
Strengthens learning at all levels-surface, deep, and transfer-within real-world contexts
Built around practical, ready-to-implement routines that work-teacher-tested and project-proven in diverse classrooms
Visual tools and step-by-step guidance bring each routine to life
Flexible for all teachers, whether leading full-scale projects or embedding rigorous problem-solving into daily lessons
Builds habits that make rigorous, student-centered learning sustainable for all educators
Whether you're tackling real-world challenges, unpacking complex ideas, or launching your first project, this guide equips you with daily moves that make problem-solving a habit of mind-not a moment in time-and turn projects into transformative learning experiences.
About the author
Michael McDowell, Ed. D. was a public school educator for eighteen years serving in the roles of classroom teacher, academic and athletic coach, school principal, assistant superintendent of personnel and instruction, and superintendent. During his tenure as a superintendent, his school district received state and national accolades including the National Blue Ribbon Award which recognized their work for student performance and mental health and well-being in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic by the U.S. Department of Education.Dr. McDowell serves on numerous boards, served as a college professor, and worked for non-profit organizations to enhance student learning around the world. Over the course of his career, Dr. McDowell has authored bestselling books, created professional learning programs and workbooks, provided keynotes and workshops, and provided practical tools and resources for thousands of teachers and leaders on almost every continent around the world. A prolific author and consultant, Dr. McDowell is recognized as one of the leading authorities on integrating innovative and impactful practices into schools. Offering keynotes and executive coaching to heads of school around the world, he partners with educational leaders to implement high-leverage strategies that will enhance teaching and learning in classrooms, schools, and systems.
