Monday, September 17, 2012

Shift into Project Based Learning


According to Project Based Learning Resources Website (2010):
Project Based Learning is an instructional approach built upon authentic learning activities that engage student interest and motivation. These activities are designed to answer a question or solve a problem and generally reflect the types of learning and work people do in the everyday world outside the classroom.
Project Based Learning is synonymous with learning in depth. A well-designed project provokes students to encounter (and struggle with) the central concepts and principles of a discipline.
Project Based Learning teaches students 21st century skills as well as content. These skills include communication and presentation skills, organization and time management skills, research and inquiry skills, self-assessment and reflection skills, and group participation and leadership skills.
Project Based Learning is generally done by groups of students working together toward a common goal. Performance is assessed on an individual basis, and takes into account the quality of the product produced, the depth of content understanding demonstrated, and the contributions made to the ongoing process of project realization.
According to the Buck Institute for Education (2010) Project Based Learning is more effective than traditional instruction in increasing academic achievement on annual state-administered assessment tests. It is more effective than traditional instruction for teaching mathematics, economics, science, social science, clinical medical skills, and for careers in the allied health occupationsand teaching.  It is more effective than traditional instruction for long-term retention, skill development and satisfaction of students and teachers. It is more effective than traditional instruction for preparing students to integrate and explain concepts. It improves students’ mastery of 21st-century skills. It is especially effective with lower-achieving students. Lastly it provides an effective model for whole school reform.


Project based learning. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://pbl-online.org/

No comments:

Post a Comment