PBL is a teaching method in which students
gain knowledge and skills by working for an
extended period of time to investigate and
respond to a complex question, problem, or
challenge.
Project-based learning can involve, but is not limited to:
Asking and refining questions, Debating ideas, Making
predictions, Designing plans and/or experiments,
Collecting and analyzing data, Drawing conclusions,
Communicating ideas and findings to others, Asking new
questions, and Creating artifacts.
Teacher's Role
Teachers support students by giving
sufficient guidance and feedback.
The teacher must thoroughly explain all tasks that are to be
completed, provide detailed directions for how to develop the
project.
Walk around the classroom in
order to answer questions and
encourage student motivation.
In order to create successful units focused
on project-based learning, teachers must
plan well and be flexible.
Teachers often find themselves in the
role of learner and peer with the
students.
Assessment
We can assess PBL with a combination of
objective tests, checklists, and rubrics;
however, these often only measure task
completion. The inclusion of a reflective writing
component provides for self-evaluation of
student learning.
Student's Role
Students generally work in small,
collaborative groups in the
project-based learning model.
They find sources, conduct research,
and hold each other responsible for
learning and the completion of tasks.
Students must be
“self-managers” in this
approach to instruction.