Definition

=Definition of Place-Based Education =

 A commonly accepted definition of place-based education was articulated by the Rural School and Community Trust in 2005 and endorsed by Smith and Sobel (2010) in their book on the subject:

"Place-based education is learning that is rooted in what is local---the unique history, environment, culture, economy, literature, and art of a particular place. The community provides the context for learning, student work focuses on community needs and interests, and community members serve as resources and partners in every aspect of teaching and learning. This local focus has the power to engage students academically, pairing real-world relevance with intellectual rigor, while promoting genuine citizenship and preparing people to respect and live well in any community they choose." (p.23)

 We can parse this definition into key aspects of PBE:
 * Rooted in the specific natural and human-created environment students live in
 * Cuts across all academic subjects and invites interdisciplinary work
 * Engages students in the community and the community in the education of students
 * Simultaneously promotes academic, intellectual rigor and active, responsible citizenship

 Please explore our wiki further to read more about these key themes, explore many models of PBE implemented in various academic disciplines and community settings (rural, suburban, and urban), and find out how to take action on behalf of PBE or implement PBE in your own school!

**References **
==== Smith, G.A. & Sobel, D. (2010). //Place- and community-based education in schools. // New York, NY: Routledge. ====