.avif)
.png){kind=small}
.avif)
In recent years, project-based learning has become more prevalent in technology-infused subjects. It’s great to see this exciting learning method being taken more seriously in educational circles. But the truth is, this method is not new and has a remarkable history behind it.
What is project-based learning?
Project-based learning (PBL) is an educational approach that emphasizes active exploration and hands-on learning. Instead of just sitting and getting guidance from the teachers, students in the PBL classroom have the opportunity to research, team up, compile pieces of information into a project, and then share that project with others about what they have learned.
Benefits of Project-Based Learning
Research indicates that students in project-based learning environments outperform their peers in traditional. For example, in a study by Edutopia, involving over 6,000 students and 114 schools, those engaged in learning through projects scored 8 to 10 percent points higher on assignments compared to students in conventional settings.
This method is expected to gradually replace the traditional way of learning, by shifting the classroom away from the old school lecture towards more interactive and participatory educational conditions. By immersing students in practical tasks, students not only deepen their understanding of the subject matter but also develop crucial 21st-century skills for the unwritten future.
History of Project-based learning
The early roots of PBL can be traced back to the early 20th century, thanks to educational thinkers like John Dewey. He was a strong supporter of experiential learning, stating that students are more likely to comprehend and maintain interest when they actively participate in their learning journey. In the famous word of Dewey:
“Give the pupils something to do, not something to learn; and the doing is of such a nature as to demand thinking; learning naturally results.”
― John Dewey
Fast forward to the 1970s and 1970s, you’ll see PBL gaining popularity, particularly in the field of science and engineering education. Many educational institutions began to adopt PBL in their curricula, recognizing its benefits.
It made a comeback in the 1990s and the early 2000s. This time, it was largely driven by advances in technology and a growing awareness of the need for 21st-century skills such as problem solving, collaboration, and critical thinking, both in the educational field and the workforce.
Key Principles of Project-Based Learning
To make project-based learning work well in the classroom , it’s important for you to understand its key principles . These tips help teachers and parents in designing engaging lessons and activities that thoughtfully connect the classroom concepts to real-world challenges. By following TechTrain’s tips, you will make kids feel like they are onto something meaningful and fun while grasping new concepts.
- Purposeful and Authentic Experience: Choose questions that closely match their daily lives but intriguing enough that they’re in a hurry to tackle it. Since TikTok is taking over the Gen Z community, maybe try asking them about how they use it wisely, or how it can be used as a platform to promote mental health awareness.
- Student-Centric Learning: Students play an active role in their learning journey. So that means they get to pick their favorite topics, figure out how to approach the problem, or try out new ways to present their ideas to the world.
- Deep Integration with Course Content: Projects should closely match what they’re learning in class and tackle real world issues. This way, students will see what they’ve studied relates to their daily activities and situations, making it easier for them to remember and apply in various contexts, beyond the classroom.
Project-Based Learning vs Traditional Learning
When thinking about how students learn, the distinction between project-based learning and traditional projects really stands out.
Traditional projects tend to be direct and straightforward. While in a lecture-based classroom, teachers play an active role, and students get guidance and follow planned out steps. They follow a specific structure and focus on getting the facts right to meet the teachers’ expectations. This approach often leads to "scratching the surface," causing students to forget the information as soon as they leave the classroom because what they have learned, sometimes, has nothing to do with real-life situations.
Now, let's talk about learning through projects. Project-based learning, indeed, flips this whole idea on its head. With this method, students often start with a question or problem that they care about or relate closely to their interests. Rather than just receiving the assignment, and writing a report about that assignment, students can take action in various ways that they can resolve the issue. Be it teaming up with other students, or choosing to work on their own. Because students must navigate their way from different points of view, and think about the ethical implications of their ideas, these kinds of activities are one healthy way to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration skills, and other important 21st-century skills.
One of the best parts of student-centered experiential education is the level of choice it allows students to pick. For instance, in TechTrain’s coding class, students have the freedom to decide how they want to contribute. By focusing on the theme of a problem, we let our students pick whatever they wanted to code, then slowly guide them to ways that they can make their ideas come to life. At TechTrain, teachers act as a supporting mentor, leading children through the questions and problems that arise during the course, not imposing our point of view onto kids.
Collaboration is another key aspect of learning through projects. In traditional settings, students might work individually or in small groups, which can stifle creativity. Project-based learning, on the other hand, students are encouraged to collaborate extensively with each other. This creates spaces for quality work and also helps children build essential social skills that they’ll need later in life.
While traditional projects have their place, they often miss the mark when it comes to engaging students in meaningful relationships with education and learning. But PBL is different. Through it, students are able to prepare themselves for a complex world with a combo of technical skills and soft skills, at the same time, enjoy the pure power of knowledge and form a lifelong love for learning.
Assessment Methods
How to assess student performance in a PBL classroom? Here are some effective assessment methods that can make evaluation exciting:
- Rubrics: Or some people call it “grading schemes”, “criteria sheets” or “scoring guide” can be an effective tool to assess students' performance. With simple sheets, students know exactly what they need to focus on, and it gives teachers a structured way to evaluate their works.
- Peer and Self-Assessment: This is a powerful way to encourage students to play an active role in their learning. It promotes reflective thinking and helps them develop higher-order thinking skills. By relating new information to prior knowledge, they understand their own thinking and strategies, becoming both abstract and conceptual thinkers.
- Portfolios: Just like a diary of learning, students gather their project proposals, progress logs, and final projects all in one place. This showcases their growth journey and also an evidence for comprehensive evaluation of their learning.
- Presentations: Presentations are the best way to introduce students’ projects to peers, teachers, or even community members. It adds an exciting element to both the learning and assessment process. It's not just about the content; it’s about how well they communicate their ideas to the world and grow confidence in public speaking. Win-win situation!
Conclusion
Project-based learning is the new way of learning. It turns learning into a fun and engaging activity that equips students with important skills for the complexities of the world. With PBL, students are no longer sitting in the classroom feeling bored, instead, they become active participants and receivers of the knowledge they encounter. Learning becomes an indispensable part of their life, and cultivating the confidence in asking questions and voicing their opinions becomes second nature, as it should be!
Ready to experience the benefits of PBL firsthand? Explore TechTrain’s project-based courses designed to spark creativity, build essential skills, and prepare students for the future.
.avif)
.avif)
.avif)
.avif)
.avif)
.avif)
.png)
