Project-based Learning (PBL)
"Project-based learning gives everybody a chance to mimic what scientists do, and that's exciting. And it's fun if it's done well."
--Bruce Alberts, president of the National Academy of Sciences
Project-based learning (PBL) is a model for classroom activity that shifts away from the classroom practices of short, isolated, teacher-centered lessons and instead emphasizes learning activities that are long-term, interdisciplinary, student-centered, and integrated with real world issues and practices.
Project-Based learning should:
- Be anchored in core curriculum; multidisciplinary
- Involve students in sustained effort over time
- Involve student decision-making
- Be collaborative
- Have a clear real-world connection
- Use systematic assessment: both along the way and end product
Video Documentaries on Project-Based Learning by The George Lucas Educational Foundation
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Project-based Learning: An overview We must adopt new instructional practices that prepare students for life and work in the twenty-first century. 9 minutes |
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A Product of Learning: King Middle School A school uses technology to help provide top-of-the-line education for all students. 6 minutes |
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Learning on Purpose: South Grand Prairie High School Wall-to-wall career academies and a transition program for ninth graders have helped create an environment at this Texas high school in which rigorous, relevant education -- inside and outside of the classroom -- is the norm for all students. 8 minutes |
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Turning On the Switch: ASCEND School Jim Moulton, a nationally and internationally recognized educator and educational technology professional developer, talks about technology in teaching and learning. 13 minutes |
PBL Links
More information and resources about PBL can be found at the following sites:
