Key aspects of Project Based Learning A presentation by Peter de Lisle

Project Based Learning uses collaborative learning Encourages collaboration between learners in the classroom and others in their own community Through technology, learners are part of the global community. Learners use email to contact an expert in the field they are researching.

Project Based Learning is based on an Information process Learners solve problems through research, analysis & synthesis of information, and presentation of what they have learned.

Project Based Learning uses co-operative learning Learners develop the skills of working with others, making decisions together, solving complex problems with the assistance of others. All members of the group need to work together to make sense of what is going on and complete the project. Within a group, each learner is assigned a role, eg listener, note taker, task manager, etc. Educator sits in with a group and listens to what the group discussion.

Project Based Learning is based on Constructivist principles Learners discover for themselves before being given “correct answers.” Encourages learners to work with information in ways that encourage them to make their own meaning. Learners given the opportunity to find and work with Information in an authentic and interesting way. Learners encouraged to create their own knowledge based on what they have learnt, and to share it with others. Learner shows Educator something “cool” she has just discovered that a computer programme can do.

Project Based Learning takes account of multiple intelligences Allows focus on other modalities besides verbal/linguistic and mathematical/logical. Learners build a working model as part of a project.