Project-Based Learning

In Project-Based Learning (PBL), 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 creating a public product or presentation for a real audience.

As a result, students develop deep content knowledge as well as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communication skills. Project-Based Learning unleashes a contagious, creative energy among students and teachers.

PBL is thought to improve students’ knowledge and skills, raising their academic performance. The literature includes studies highlighting the positive effects of PBL on students’ academic performance in science education (see below for a sampling of research articles).

In PBL:

• Project is the vehicle for teaching the important knowledge and skills student need to learn.

• Students solve a real-world problem or answer a complex question.

• Students work on a project over an extended period of time – from a week up to a semester.

• They demonstrate their knowledge and skills by creating a public product or presentation for a real audience.

Benefits to students:

• Develop deep content knowledge

• Critical thinking

• Collaboration

• Creativity

• Communication skills

Additional PBL resources from Buck Institute of Education

1. Differences between "doing a project" vs. "project-based learning"

2. Project-Based Learning (PBL) vs. Problem-Based Learning vs. XBL

3. Guidelines for educators planning to incorporate PBL

4. Essential Projects Design Elements Checklist