Project - Based Learning

image from teachthought.com

Looking for a more formal definition of PBL?

Project Based Learning is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging, and complex question, problem, or challenge.

In Project Based Learning, teachers make learning come alive for students.

Students work on a project over an extended period of time – from a week up to a semester – that engages them in solving a real-world problem or answering a complex question. They demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing a public product or presentation for a real audience.

As a result, students develop deep content knowledge as well as critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills in the context of doing an authentic, meaningful project. Project Based Learning unleashes a contagious, creative energy among students and teachers.


Resources:

Buck Institute has been a a large initiator in PBL. Their website has lots of resources, ideas, and even a digital community to utilize.

A. J. Juliani - author of The PBL Playbook

Defined STEM blog

Edutopia, a website full of research based articles and activities for teachers, administrators, and parents. Edutopia has a whole section dedicated to PBL.

This brief article explains some of the basics of project based learning.

John Spencer - author of LAUNCH and EMPOWER

PBL Project (subscription)

Workbench - PBL Lesson ideas