Project-Based Learning (PBL)

PBL (Project-Based Learning or Problem-Based Learning) eliminates the question, "When would I use this in the real world?".

That alone makes it worth investigating.

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image of https://www.cte.cornell.edu/teaching-ideas/engaging-students/problem-based-learning.html

What is problem-based learning?

This short post from Cornell University's Center for Teaching Excellence answers three questions about PBL.

What is it?
Why use it?
What are the basic steps in designing a PBL project?

Five Keys to PBL

Well-designed project-based learning (PBL) has been shown to result in deeper learning and more engaged, self-directed learners.

This video from Edutopia outlines five core elements of successful PBL...

Has real world connections,
Is core to learning,
Implements structured collaboration,
Is student driven, and
Has ongoing, multifaceted assessment.

YouTube URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnzCGNnU_WM

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Problem-Based Learning: An Introduction

This introduction to Project Based Learning looks at what it does, what it is, its historical origins and PBL's roles and procedures.

PBL Resources

The Buck Institute for Education shows teachers how to use Project Based Learning in all grade levels and subject areas. Their goal is to help teachers prepare students for successful lives.

The offer a wide variety of resources and services to help teachers, schools and districts implement PBL successfully.

A go-to-first resource.

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PBL - Best Practices

This page highlights PBL resources to help you in your efforts to create great learning opportunities for your students.

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image of http://pages.uoregon.edu/moursund/DigitalAge1/pbl_book_chapter_3.htm

Dr. Dave Moursund, a professor in the College of Education at the University of Oregon has put together a book on Project-Based Learning. In this chapter, he provides some examples and ideas for PBL lessons and shows us that ideas for PBL are everywhere.

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image of http://www.ebsinstitute.com/OtherActivities/EBS.OtherActivities.html

Scenario-Based Investigations

EBS has outlines a series of activities that can be a starting point for a PBL project. Ideas range from Saving the Inlet to Managing a Pest to Traffic Safety.

Rather than just looking at a problem, what's the best way to solve it? And how do you define "best"?

Like any other instructional method, PBL should be applied carefully. It requires extra planning, but can yield richer learning and more efficient use of precious instructional time.

Working and sharing with colleagues, either locally or at remote sites, can make a big difference.

Another alternative approach to science curricula, in particular, is event-based science for very young students. Weather, current discoveries, etc. are harnessed as triggers for in-depth study.