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Math 7-10 > Strategies > Project-based Learning

Project-based Learning

Overview

Project-based learning (PBL) actively engages learners in authentic tasks designed to create products that answer a given question or solve a problem. When educators act as facilitators and promote projects that are relevant to students as a part of the curriculum, students have agency over their learning, promoting self-efficacy and Motivation through this experiential learning. Working collaboratively on multimodal or cross-disciplinary projects as leaders and team-members can provide opportunities to build on individuals' experiences and strengths. It also can develop learners' collaboration, problem solving, critical thinking, and communication skills while fostering a Sense of Belonging. Educators should recognize that not all students have had previous experience with student-driven learning and may need additional support, including opportunities to participate successfully, and ample time to review materials and make decisions.

View References

Example: Use This Strategy in the Classroom

See how well-designed project-based learning (PBL) can result in deeper learning and more engaged, self-directed learners. This video highlights five core elements of successful PBL including real-world connections, academic rigor, structured collaboration, student-driven, and multifaceted assessment.

  • Whether project-based learning is done as a class, in small groups or as individuals, there are many ways to elevate students' voice, and provide choice throughout the process. Educators can support this process by modeling collaboration with peers in designing cross-disciplinary projects, and encouraging inquiry and reflection. Educators should scaffold the learning as needed, promote rigor, and provide strengths-based or growth-mindset feedback.

    • Design It into Your Product

  • Edtech products can provide students opportunities to research, plan, and create digital prototypes as part of project-based learning. Prompts and rubrics can support students through inquiry based processes. Developers can offer opportunities for choice, as well as multimodal tools that support collaboration and reflection, including video conferencing, shared documents, and platforms to monitor progress, reflect, and share out externally.

    • Additional Resources

    Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.

    Examples

    PBL signature Workspace

    See how a 6th grade teacher uses PBL to teach SEL and how she adapted her process for remote learning

    Examples

    3 Ways PBL Can Address Equity

    John King describes how rigorous PBL can support learners in class and beyond

    Examples

    Culturally Responsive Math using PBL

    Edutopia blog outlines culturally responsive math practices using PBL

    Examples

    Global Problem Solvers, AZ

    Middle school students participate in PBL using Global Problem Solvers to solve social problems

    Examples

    How to Facilitate PBL Online

    Useful tips for implementing project-based learning in a virtual environment

    Examples

    Incorporating STEM through PBL

    Bunche MS students explain their STEM projects to better their community

    Examples

    Tools for Project-Based Learning

    Resource of top tools from Common Sense Learning Education to support project-based learning

    Professional Development

    7 Moves to Advance Equity through PBL

    Tips on how to implement PBL while advancing racial equity

    Professional Development

    Challenge Based Learning

    Tools, videos and pd resources to support authentic projects

    Professional Development

    Project-Based Teaching Rubric

    A rubric for teachers to implement and reflect on project-based learning practices

    Research

    Reinventing AP Courses through PBL

    Research shows how an AP courses built with PBL can support equitable learning

    Factors Supported by this Strategy

    Student Background
    Hearing
    Social Supports
    Socioeconomic Status
    Vision
    Social and Emotional Learning
    Emotion
    Math Mindset
    Motivation
    Self-regulation
    Sense of Belonging
    Social Awareness & Relationship Skills
    Stereotype Threat
    Cognition
    Attention
    Long-term Memory
    Metacognition
    Mathematics
    Algebraic Thinking
    Math Communication
    Mathematical Flexibility

    More Active Learning Strategies

    Creating Visual Representations

    Students activate more cognitive processes by exploring and representing their understandings in visual form.

    Error Analysis

    Analyzing incorrect worked examples is especially beneficial for helping students develop a conceptual understanding of mathematical processes.

    Explaining Their Thinking

    When students explain their thinking process aloud with guidance in response to questions or prompts, they recognize the strategies they use and solidify their understanding.

    Math Games

    Math games allow students to practice many math skills in a fun, applied context.

    Response Devices

    Response devices boost engagement by encouraging all students to answer every question.

    Student-generated Problems

    When students create their own number and word problems, they connect math concepts to their background knowledge and lived experiences.

    Worked Examples

    Analyzing and discussing solved problems helps students develop a deeper understanding of abstract mathematical processes.

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