Using project-based learning in the classroom

As more emphasis is put on the global workplace, teachers are finding ways to prepare students for how to solve real-world issues. 

 

What is project-based learning?

While there are many ways to lead a classroom, project-based learning is gaining some traction. Project-based learning is a dynamic classroom approach in which students actively explore real-world problems and challenges through hands-on projects and presentations.

The core idea behind project-based learning is that students work on a project over an extended period of time, which could be many weeks or even a semester. The focus is on solving problems, exploring issues or answering complex questions. Students are usually required to show that they have mastered the material by developing a presentation or even a product or mock-up that is presented to an audience.

The benefits of using project-based learning are that students are able to develop a deeper understanding of the topic and have the opportunity to display creativity, critical thinking and communication skills during their presentation.

 

How do you incorporate project-based learning into the classroom?

The main idea behind project-based learning is to teach students to draw insights from various sources and utilize multiple skills to tackle the assignment. Instead of being taught the concept by the teacher, students are required to ask questions in order to start the project. This helps students incorporate problem-solving into the learning process, forcing them to think critically about the issue rather than simply looking up the answer in a textbook or online.

How do you incorporate project-based learning into your classroom?

Implementing any new teaching process can be challenging, but the beauty of project-based learning is that it doesn’t dramatically change what the teacher has to do. However, It can seem daunting when using project-based learning in your classroom for the first time. However, small steps can lead to huge strides.

Project-based learning isn’t something schools master in a matter of weeks, or even months. Instead, it’s more a journey that unfolds year over year, as teachers develop their practice, learn with their students and grow through experience.

Here are some tips to help you implement project-based learning in the classroom.

1. START WITH SMALL, WELL ORCHESTRATED CHANGES

Carol Ann Tomlinson, when writing about differentiation in the classroom, advised teachers to start with “small, well orchestrated changes”.

Select a few targeted goals you wish to work on this year with regards to project-based learning, and focus on doing those things well, concentrating on growth. This might mean keeping the scope and duration of a project to a minimum; using or renovating an existing project, and taking the time to get meaningful feedback from both students and relevant professionals.

2. LOOK AT THINGS FROM A STUDENT’S POINT OF VIEW

You can gain insight into how to get started with project-based learning by flipping your perspective and looking at it from a student’s point of view.

Think about what questions they might have when it comes to this new way of learning. Provide them with valuable, easy-to-understand resources to help them make sense of PBL as a concept and the practical steps once they are engaged in the process.

Project-based learning often requires many skills that students may not be used to, such as researching, summarising, problem-solving, working as a team, learning to spot fake news etc. A good idea is to use any early foray into project-based learning to build these skills in a fun way.

3. HOLD AN IMMERSIVE, MULTI-DAY WORKSHOP

Many educators who have been successful with PBL say that the ideal way to get into it is through an immersive, multi-day workshop. This can be facilitated independently with somebody familiar with PBL practices at your school. However, in most cases it will be necessary to bring in an external facilitator – who is an experienced PBL practitioner – into the mix.

4. THINK ABOUT ASSESSMENT

It’s important to also think about how any project-based work will be assessed. Plan and communicate the success criteria for students – the most common way in PBL  is to give a rubric or success criteria at the start. Don’t make it too ‘wordy’ however, or with too many granular checkpoints.

However, online is not the only place to look to for ideas. Inspiration can be found from all around us, such as current events, business needs in the local community, or even the current curriculum or ‘content standards ‘ (what is it you looking to teach?).

Remember, if it doesn’t fit, don’t force it! Selecting a theme is important but don’t force subjects where they don’t belong. If things aren’t gelling, find another theme. Ideas such as fair trading and immigration can open up many topics.
It may also help to be mindful of teachers working outside their specialism.