Project Based Learning

What is it? An extended process of inquiry in response to a complex question, problem or challenge It is often situated learning Projects are carefully planned, managed and assessed Key skills are collaboration, communication and critical thinking Focus on creating authentic responses and knowledge The idea of “learning by doing” was first promoted by John Dewey (1897)

Answering the driving question The driving question is open ended Students need to used Higher Order Thinking skills Students need to work as a team Requires critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration and communication

Inquiry in the learning process Develop and ask questions Search for answers Arrive at conclusions Use these conclusions to construct something new: an idea, interpretation or product The teacher is merely a facilitator- students are responsible for their own inquiry

PBL vs Traditional didactic approaches to learning Traditional approaches present students with knowledge and concepts. Students must gain these to reach opportunities to apply them PBL starts with a vision of the end product/ presentation/ idea. Students create a context, and are engaged by developing a reason to learn and understand the information and concepts needed to complete the project

Advantages of PBL Students are giving a voice in the learning process, learning to work independently and in teams, and must take responsibility for their project and learning Students give and receive feedback during the process, to improve the final project outcomes (e.g. product) Students are asked to reflect upon what and how they are learning, to improve their critical thinking and self evaluation skills Students gain a deeper understanding of the key concepts and knowledge in a project

Some more advantages… Projects can have real life applications, making the content more relatable for students Students can improve their time and project management skills Student social skills are enhanced

Disadvantages of PBL Social loafing as described by Hye-Jung and Cheoli (2012), where some team members perform insufficiently, requiring other team members to pick up the slack Social loafing can also lead to project standards being lowered to maintain team cohesion and congeniality Social dynamics are not always assessed, despite these having a direct impact on the completed project PBL is not applicable in all subject areas, such as in skills based subjects like Math (however it is highly useful in TAS subjects)