Project-Based Learning
Project-Based Learning is an educational process that involves hands-on activities and active problem-solving.
What is Project-Based Learning
Project-Based Learning is a process in which students typically start with a learning goal, ask open-ended questions that require critical thinking, and design their process to reach a solution. Ultimately, students will share their project findings to hone communication skills and further solidify their learnings.
This type of learning is known to increase engagement and help students develop knowledge that is carried further into the future, stemming from active participation and understandings from a specific, lived experience.
Definition of Project-Based Learning
Project-Based Learning Examples
K-12
In public and private K-12 schools, project-based learning can be effective in almost all subjects, whether through a science experiment, a language class, or history exploration. Teachers can create open-ended rubrics and let students be imaginative about reaching their learning goals and presenting their findings to the rest of the class.
College
College students might implement project-based learning on a deeper level or larger scale. For instance, college students might conduct research with industry professionals or thought-leaders in the space or launch their projects to their classmates and the larger community.
Workplace
Employees can launch projects to explore topics adjacent to their expertise or build entirely new products and services. Additionally, someone starting their own business essentially partakes in several project-based learning experiences, which typically will result in higher ownership in each segment of the company.
Why Project-Based Learning is Important
Builds genuine curiosity
If given the option to choose their learning objectives, students tend to ask more complex and more profound questions than they would have been able to imagine with pre-set questions.
Encourages flexibility
If the student can create their plan and track personal progress, they will feel a stronger sense of ownership and commitment to their project.
Empowers the student
Providing a safe space to share their accomplishments can help solidify their learnings and boost their presentation skills. Ultimately, the student will share how their impact on their environment.
Project-Based Learning Statistics
63% higher test scores in the humanities
According to Education Week, students who participated in project-based curriculum scored higher in social studies and informational reading than their peers in the control group.
Eight percentile point gains in the sciences
In a new study by Create for Stem Institute, project-based learning raised average science test scores compared to their non project-based counterparts in traditional classrooms.
30% Higher pass rates on AP exams
In a multi-year study, students engaged in project-based learning achieved a 30% higher pass rate on the AP US Government exam and 19% higher pass rate on the AP Environmental Science exam.
Project-Based Learning Resources
Buck Institute for Education: Watch Project-Based Learning in Action
These 7-10 minute videos show a project-based learning unit from beginning to end. They capture the nuts and bolts of how project based learning drives more curiosity for students. Watch here>
Using Project-Based Learning to Immerse Students in Their Community
High school students engaged in project-based learning by designing museum exhibits that explore local history. Read more >
Rigorous Project-Based Learning as a Powerful Lever for Improving Equity
A new body of research shows project-based learning positively influences students across urban, suburban, and rural school settings from various socio-economic, racial and ethnic groups. Read more >
How To Implement Project-Based Learning
Set your learning goals
Find a topic you are interested in, and create specific, measurable goals to document your learning progress.
Own and design your process
Focus on owning and designing the process as you work towards the learning goals you set for yourself.
Share your project
Launching your project to the public will give you a voice and further reinforce the lessons you learned along the way.