Project+Based+Learning



In Project Based Learning (PBL), students go through an extended process of inquiry in response to a complex question, problem, or challenge. While allowing for some degree of student "voice and choice," rigorous projects are carefully planned, managed, and assessed to help students learn key academic content, practice 21st Century Skills (such as collaboration, communication & critical thinking), and create high-quality, authentic products & presentations. -- statement from the Buck Institure for Education

Students gain a deeper understanding of the concepts and standards at the heart of a project. Projects also build vital workplace skills and lifelong habits of learning. Projects can allow students to address community issues, explore careers, interact with adult mentors, use technology, and present their work to audiences beyond the classroom. PBL can motivate students who might otherwise find school boring or meaningless.

Some teachers use PBL extensively as their primary curriculum organizer and instructional method. Others use PBL occasionally during a school year. Projects vary in length, from several days to several weeks or even a semester. PBL can be effective at all grade levels and subjects, and in career/technical education, afterschool and alternative programs.

**__Elements of PBL __**

 * is intended to teach significant content. **
 * requires critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and various forms of communication. **
 * requires inquiry as part of the process of learning and creating something new. **
 * is organized around an open-ended Driving Question. **
 * creates a need to know essential content and skills. **
 * allows some degree of student voice and choice. **
 * includes processes for revision and reflection **
 * involves a public audience. **
 * NREL document on Creating Excitement for Learning with PBL **

__**Benefits of Project Based Instruction **__
Prepares students for the workplace Increases motivation Connects school learning with the real world <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #666666; font-family: georgia,'times new roman',serif;">Provides collaborative opportunities to construct knowledge <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #666666; font-family: georgia,'times new roman',serif;">Increases social and communication skills <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #666666; font-family: georgia,'times new roman',serif;">Increases problem solving skills <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #666666; font-family: georgia,'times new roman',serif;">Helps make connections between disciplines

=Video shows several examples of PBL= media type="custom" key="22066406"

<span style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 130%;">Links to learn more about Project Based Learning: Buck Institute for Education Buck Institute Online Resources PBL Do-It-Yourself PBL and Math--It Works!

<span style="font-family: 'Courier New',Courier,monospace; font-size: 130%;">Resources to get you started in your own PBL: