Defining Project Based Learning

Project Based Learning  ~By Dr. Cheryl Holmes

What is Project Based Learning?

By Definition Project Based Learning (PBL) is:

• An Instructional Method that:

• • Centers on a learning challenge in which
    • Learner is placed in the role of constructing/making knowledge and sharing what they construct with those within their learning environment for the purpose of
      • ALL in the learning environment using what is learned within real life experiences
    • :Learners gather and process information,
    • Learners draw conclusions and,
    • Learners recommend solutions to problems and or issues of real-life significance

• Learning takes place in:
  • Small groups and,
  • Independently
• Each Learner is responsible for making choices about how:

• • • Information will be gathered, communicated and,
    • Processed

• PBL is an interdisciplinary learning experience that:
  • Places Learner in the position of experiencing
    • Natural pursuit of a Learning Challenge that

• • • Often facilitates skills development in more than one subject area/curriculum

By Definition PBL is an Instruction Method that:

• Assumes ALL Learners are able to construct knowledge

• • Places the Learner in the role of:
    • Investigator for the purpose of constructing knowledge

• Learning Facilitator uses
  • Open ended Questions and or
  • Open Ended Challenges requiring:
    • Learner’s use of Scientific Method for the purpose of constructing knowledge

Therefore:

• PBL places the Learner in the role of
  • “Key decision maker in his or her own learning.”

What is the Learning Facilitator’s role in PBL?

• Careful design of interdisciplinary learning teams
• Careful design of units and lessons placing Learner in the role of:
  • Investigator and crafter of constructed knowledge

• Careful design of interdisciplinary teams that ensure

• • • Systematic improvement of Learner’s performance across all core curriculums

• Carefully designs information gathering and processing activities that:

• • • Accommodates the four main learning styles associated with Myers-Briggs Type Inventory and
    • Gardner’s eight multiple intelligences

Why is PBL described and identified as an interdisciplinary learning experience?

• Through PBL Learner’s experience

• • Natural pursuit of a Learning Challenge which
    • Facilitates skills development in more than one subject area/curriculum

Are there PBL Research Based Best Practice Methods?
Conclusion
 

Project Based Learning Outcomes

• Learner engages in natural integration of basic skills
• Learner exhibits greater motivation because they are tasked with construction of knowledge
• Learner’s ability to both retain and effectively share constructed knowledge is typically enhanced and sustained
• Learning Facilitator is placed in the role of “Instructional MUSE”
  • Models best practice methods for constructing and sharing knowledge
  • Encourages Learner to take full ownership of what they learn and how they communicate what they learn

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