PROJECT BASED LEARNING

            Project Based Learning

           I would like to give information about the instructional strategy “project-based learning” which is a technique used for effective communication of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) concepts in our school.  Our school is a big supporter of STEM education. The previous year we (the science team) were asked to work on weekly (small projects) and termly (big projects) with our students focusing on STEM concepts.

         At this point, I would like to make some deep analysis about project based learning referring conducted researches on this subject. Coffey H. (2008) defines PBL (project based learning) as follows “Project-based learning is a teaching approach that engages students in sustained, collaborative real-world investigations. Projects are organized around a driving question, and students participate in a variety of tasks that seek to meaningfully address this question.” What is the history of PBL? According to the Buck Institute for Education (BIE), project-based learning has its roots in experiential education and the philosophy of John Dewey.  The method of project-based learning emerged due to developments in learning theory in the past 25 years (project based learning, 2008). 

PROJECT BASED LEARNING

STUDENTS IN ACTION

          I would like to examine the school/classroom setting, the role of the teacher and the role of the learner in PBL strategy. The project-based learning approach is often used in small school settings, like charter and magnet schools, because they are affected to a lesser degree by the high-stakes state-mandated testing movement. Project-based learning is only possible in classrooms where teachers support students by giving sufficient guidance and feedback. With crowded classrooms it may be difficult, on the project days teacher must have a teacher aid.

        What is the role of the teacher?The teacher must thoroughly explain all tasks that are to be completed, provide detailed directions for how to develop the project, and circulate within the classroom in order to answer questions and encourage student motivation. In order to create successful units focused on project-based learning, teachers must plan well and be flexible. In this approach to instruction, teachers often find themselves in the role of learner and peer with the students. Teachers can assess project-based learning with a combination of objective tests, checklists, and rubrics; however, these often only measure task completion. The inclusion of a reflective writing component provides for self-evaluation of student learning.

ROLES OF TEACHER AND STUDENT IN THE PBL

What is the role of the learner? Students generally work in small, collaborative groups in the project-based learning model. They find sources, conduct research, and hold each other responsible for learning and the completion of tasks. Essentially, students must be “self-managers” in this approach to instruction. The gender of the students does not make any difference while using this strategy but the personality and culture of the learner are very important. He or she must be responsible and open to group work who can manage his peers.

      To conclude, as a STEM instructor I am a big fan of Project Based Learning. Although it is tiring for a teacher to prepare these projects but it is a very useful way for students to get ready for the real life. Having them actively engaged learning about things in their community and doing projects that they care about is giving them that ownership of their learning, it’s making them life-long learners, it’s giving them the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that they need as soon as they walk out of your classroom into the real world.

                                                      References

Coffey H. (2008). Project-based learning.Retrieved from

                              http://www.learnnc.org/lp/pages/4753

Fogarty, R.(1999).Architects of Intellect. Retrieved from                                                                                                     https://wilmu.blackboard.com/bbcswebdav/pid-8961113

"Project-based learning (2008).” Buck Institute for Education. Retrieved from  

                             http://www.bie.org/index.php/site/PBL/pbl_handbook_introduction/#history