Project-Based Learning: What Is It?

Project-based learning requires teachers to be facilitators, not lecturers. It is a dynamic approach to teaching in which students explore real-world problems and challenges. For example, rather than taking on a group project at the end of a lecture, students are introduced to the project at the very beginning and use it to drive the topic discussion. This way they aren’t being talked at; instead, they are fully involved in the learning process by collaborating, using critical thinking and problem solving skills. With project-based learning, students are inspired to obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects they’re studying because they’re required to take an active role in the learning process.

Well-designed and well-implemented project-based learning is meaningful in two ways.

1. Students must perceive the work as personally meaningful.
2. A meaningful project fulfills an educational purpose.

This approach to learning requires more work from not just the students, but also from teachers. Using project-based instruction in a classroom requires trust that the students can create their own answers. Teachers must resist the urge to provide the correct answers and allow students to discover the answers on their own. So how do you create a project-based learning experience? Here are 3 tips to better implement meaningful projects.

Continue reading at Mulberry Buzz: http://www.mulberry.org/project-based-learning-what-is-it/