PBL involves schools using an evidenced-based problem-solving framework. This framework supports the development of a planned whole school approach to wellbeing and a school culture strongly focused on learning.
Student assessment data is regularly used across the school to inform teaching effectiveness and future directions at the school and individual student level.
Data is used to make important decisions to inform the actions of staff to address student needs. It is used to monitor student outcomes following implementation.
Using data that is shared with staff, parents and students allows the school community to focus on developing a safe and supportive learning environment.
The problem solving process involves a school team implementing four critical and connected features across each tier of the PBL continuum:
- Outcomes are locally determined, contextually and culturally relevant and measurable. These include social, emotional, behavioural and academic outcomes for children and young people.
- Data includes information that is used to identify the current status, the need for change and the effects of interventions. Data on student behaviour, academic performance, attendance and other key indicators is considered by the team. Data on how well the practices are being implemented is essential. By reviewing data frequently, school teams can make decisions to select, differentiate or discontinue practices based on need.
- Systems are staff focused. They include procedures that support all staff to enable the accurate and sustainable implementation of practices to support students.
- Practices are student focused. They are the evidence-based interventions and strategies that support students. Practices are selected and adjusted to ensure they are culturally and contextually relevant.
The school team:
- uses data to inform decision making
- establishes systems, plans and procedures that help staff to meet the learning needs of all students
- implements evidenced based practices to support students.
Regular evaluation of the school’s systems and practices to support student behaviour is important throughout the implementation of PBL. This involves regular analysis of behaviour and learning data and surveys of school staff, students and the school community.