In today’s polarized times, many people form conclusions about those on “the other side” and don’t see them as fellow citizens worthy of respect. But what if we approached those people with curiosity instead? What if we really tried to understand them, not see them only through a single story? It would be a healing process that fosters trust and belonging.
Many teachers want to explore issues in today’s world with their students but find it daunting – navigating the views of students, parents, and administrators seems fraught with peril. Perhaps starting from a place of curiosity could help! In Project Based Learning, students are encouraged to be curious, not just give the ”right answer.” Students have a voice in finding topics to explore and problems to solve, and they ask their own meaningful questions to guide inquiry. The goal of projects, especially when they’re about controversial issues in our society, can be to reach greater understanding, not simply defend a stance.
We’ll say more about the connection between PBL and curiosity in a future blog post. For now, in response to the challenge of teaching in contentious times, we’re very excited to announce our keynote speaker for PBL World 2026 - an inspiring expert in how to cultivate “deep curiosity”! Scott distinguishes deep curiosity from surface-level curiosity. Surface curiosity asks questions that feel safe and confirm what we already believe. Deep curiosity asks questions that may unsettle us, challenge our assumptions, or put us in contact with perspectives we don’t fully understand—or even agree with.
Scott Shigeoka
This year’s PBL World keynote isn’t just a speaker—it’s a stance. Scott Shigeoka’s work challenges us to see curiosity not as passive wonder, but as a courageous practice. It’s a message worth hearing for every teacher who uses PBL.
Scott is an internationally-recognized curiosity expert and speaker. He is known for translating research into strategies that promote positive well-being and connected relationships around the globe, including at the UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center and through his groundbreaking courses at the University of Texas at Austin. Scott has spread his curiosity practices to public officials, health care professionals, artists, activists, writers, media organizations, educators, community leaders and businesses.
His DIVE model is a practical framework for practicing deep curiosity, especially across difference. It helps people move beyond surface-level questions toward understanding, connection, and growth. (And it could serve as guidance for the design and implementation of PBL, too.)
The DIVE Model
| D — Detach from Assumptions Notice and loosen the stories, stereotypes, or snap judgments you’re carrying before engaging. |
| I — Intend for Connection Get clear on why you’re being curious. The goal isn’t to win, fix, or prove—but to understand and relate. |
| V — Value Other People’s Dignity Approach others with respect and care, recognizing their humanity even when you disagree. |
| E — Embrace the Hard Moments Stay present when curiosity feels uncomfortable, awkward, or challenging—those moments are often where learning happens. |
What PBL World Participants Will Gain
Project Based Learning has always asked learners to sit with ambiguity, ask better questions, and engage across perspectives. Scott’s work names what many educators already feel: curiosity is not optional—it’s foundational to deep learning and human connection.
This keynote is not a talk to consume—it’s an invitation. An invitation to examine how curiosity shows up in our classrooms, our leadership, and our own assumptions. To consider what becomes possible when curiosity leads and we create experiences where learning lasts. We think you’ll come away from hearing Scott’s ideas with profound reflections on your work and life. It might even be transformational.
PBL World has always been about more than strategies, it’s about the kind of learning we believe students deserve. This keynote sets the tone for three days of inquiry, connection, and courage…together.
Learn more about Scott's book, Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World (November 14, 2023)
Backed by powerful storytelling and research, SEEK will show you how to tap into deep curiosity through my signature "DIVE" framework—Detach, Intend, Value, Embrace—which can be practiced in homes, schools, workplaces, and day-to-day life.
Learn more about it here.
