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.
Example: Use This Strategy in the Classroom
See how educators collaborate to develop an interdisciplinary project for their Pre-K students. This project engages students through PBL by giving them the opportunity to act as zookeepers, with the task of designing a habitat for the zoo animals, incorporating role play, science, math, arts, and more.
Design It into Your Product
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Active Learning Strategies
Building with blocks is ideal for promoting early geometric and Spatial Skills.
Students activate more cognitive processes by exploring and representing their understandings in visual form.
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.
Free choice supports learner interests and promotes the development of more complex social interactions.
Imagining allows students to step back from a problem or task and think about it from multiple angles.
Math games use numbers and Spatial Skills, allowing students to practice many math skills in a fun, applied context.
Response devices boost engagement by encouraging all students to answer every question.
