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An Introduction to Project Based Learning
Contributors: [|Megan Boie], [|Marta Crawford], [|Brittany Dorris], [|Julia Cunningham], and [|Christine Ganieany] Pages:  Alamo Project, Brainstorming

What is Project-Based Learning?
Project based learning ([|PBL]) is an effective approach to teaching collaborative skills to students. Students are asked to explore and solve real world problems, through a number of different avenues. This type of engaged learning promotes a higher level of thinking which results in overall mastery of a specific topic. These projects should be cross curricular because they take up a lot of time. This results in students mastering many topics in the curriculum instead of spending a abundance of time on one skill or topic. Project based learning is very beneficial for students because they learn skills that they can apply both inside and outside the classroom in the future. (Megan Boie) media type="youtube" key="VgA1wZhW5TE?fs=1" height="307" width="384" align="right"

**Why use PBL in Education?**

There are numerous reasons for using PBL in education. The first is that it encourages students to work collaboratively. This is a necessary skill for students to learn because it will benefit them throughout school and also in any career that they choose to pursue. The second advantage of PBL is allowing students to learn valuable technological skills while learning the target information. In today's world, it is vital that students learn to use and practice using technology throughout their schooling so that, when they graduate, they are fully prepared to enter a technology-rich world. A third reason for using PBL is to allow students to be more involved with their learning. If the student is required to obtain knowledge and demonstrate their learning through different activities such as power-points and skits, a student gains much more from the project than if they just had to memorize and then be tested on the information.

Planning a PBL Lesson
(Megan Boie)
 * Begin with the end in mind . **
 * Ask yourself: **"What do you want the students to create? Why are they creating it?"** Then work backwards from there. Use curriculum and standards to direct your planning.


 * Plan the assessment.**
 * Every project should be driven by an explicit set of outcomes that encompass the content and skills students are expected to learn. The assessment is share with students at the beginning of the project and throughout the process.


 * Map the project.**
 * A project map is the step-by-step process the students go through to complete the project. It provides the sequence of activities, structures the project, and directs students. The project should be centered around hands-on activities and should include plans for [|differentiation].


 * Manage the process.**
 * Although PBL looks chaotic, successful projects are carefully managed by teachers. Teachers become facilitators and guides. They do not transmit information. Students learn to manage themselves and take responsibility for their own work. Self-assessment is built into the project. Teachers can manage the process through checkpoints, milestones, employing problem-solving skills, and using authentic assessment.


 * Give the project time.**
 * PBL takes time...A LOT of time...both in planning and execution. Projects may last weeks, months, even the entire school year.


 * Integrate technology throughout the project . **
 * For people responsible for **Technology Integration:**
 * The integration of technology should be **seamless and meaningful.** This means employing the use of technology in ways that make sense and enhance the experience. PBL projects that truly integrate technology cannot be completed without it.
 * **Identify specific forms of technology to be used.** There are numerous forms of technology available...from basics such as the internet, computers, printers, scanners, and document cameras to cutting edge technology such as SMART boards, cell phones, digital cameras, and GPS devices (to name a few).
 * **Describe how the technology listed will be used.** Make sure readers have a clear understanding of how to use the technology required to complete the project.
 * **Don't forget software or web apps!** If your project requires specific titles, list them as well. (Marta Crawford)



More information about project based learning can be found at these helpful pages:
[|Information on PBL] a website with a comprehensive discussion of PBL

[|The Buck Institute for Education] has a wealth of information regarding Project Based Learning.

[|Water Purification: A System of General Engineering]

[|Think Quest PBL] promotional advertisement in favor of Project Based Learning (Megan Boie)

[|A Description on PBL]

This list is also available on our "More Information" Page