Implementing Project-Based Learning in the Classroom

By Kelly HughesMay 6, 2010

Touro University EDU 710

Introduction

Project-based learning (PBL) is an innovative way to help children relate what they learn in school to their lives outside of the classroom.

PBL is a student-driven, teacher-facilitated approach to learning.

Benefits of PBL include greater student understanding of topics, higher-level reading, and an increased motivation to learn

Statement of the Problem Traditional approach to teaching and learning

doesn’t always work for all students. › learning disconnect: students find it difficult to relate to

what is being taught because there doesn’t appear to be a linkage to what’s going on in their world outside of the classroom

› leads to students being less motivated to understand and solve problems.

Traditional approach=Lack of collaboration› Students reluctant to ask questions

Traditional Approach› Students less likely to retain what they learn

Background and Need Traditional teaching methods have not proven to

be effective for some students or to have a positive impact on standardized test scores and graduation rates.

Standardized testing shows that students engaged in project-based learning outscore their traditionally educated peers › PBL students aren’t being given problems that only

require that they memorize rules or concepts in order to solve, they are applying their knowledge to something more concrete

› Because PBL is student directed students are motivated to learn, and acquire a deeper and conceptual understanding of subject matter. PBL can not only be beneficial in increasing test scores, and motivating students, but it also serves to create a more well-rounded, and empowered student.

Purpose of Project To introduce Project-Based Learning into a 4th grade

classroom to determine the impact it has on the student’s learning.

Baseline control data: student’s past grades and test scores, and project conclusions will be based on the changes in performance over the school year.

Questions:› How receptive will the school be regarding this project and

this new method of teaching?› How receptive will parents be of this project? What is the

best way to communicate the project and project updates to them?

› What will the student’s acceptance level be related to transitioning from a traditional learning environment to a Project-Based Learning environment?

Questions Continued…

› What impact will PBL have on students who are currently struggling with the traditional teaching methods? What impact will it have on students who are currently realizing success in the traditional environment?

› Other than test scores and grades, are there other metrics that can be used to effectively measure the success or failure of the project?

› What are some of the lessons learned during the project and once the project is completed?

Project Objectives Determine if students can effectively transition from a

traditional teaching/learning environment, to a PBL environment.

Develop a communications plan that addresses the needs of the school, parents and students.

Identify and document any challenges and obstacles related to the implementation of PBL in a 4th grade classroom.

Determine if some students prefer the PBL learning environment over the traditional method. Attempt to identify any common characteristics of those who prefer PBL.

Measure the effectiveness of the PBL process by tracking, trending and evaluating the performance metrics for each student during the project (specific milestones) and at the conclusion of the project.

Objectives Continued… Conduct an overall Project Analysis

to include:› Project implementation process

› Issues and Challenges› Project Controls› Communication Plan› Project Results› Lessons Learned

Definition of Terms Project-Based Learning – An innovative teaching

method that can help students relate what they learn in school, to their lives outside of the classroom.

Standardized Testing – Nationally approved tests to measure the aptitude of students at all levels in various subjects.

Stanford Open Ended Reading Assessment – These valuable open-ended assessments address important educational objectives best measured with student-constructed responses.

Performance Metrics – Data points used to determine the progress and performance (i.e. grades, test scores, etc.)

Summary

Project-Based Learning can help students develop the same kinds of 21st-century skills— such as problem solving, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity—that today’s employers covet. Tackling long-term, student-led projects can help students build real-world skills and knowledge.