Project Based Learning (PBL)

Project-based learning (PBL) is an evidence-based, high-impact educational practice that invites students to explore how their course work can be applied in real contexts.  Students tackle open-ended problems and complex questions while typically working collaboratively in small groups and are supported (but not directed) by their instructor. PBL does not use hypothetical situations, but instead asks students to wrestle with real problems that may not have a “correct answer.”

PBL can be implemented at different scales, ranging from curriculum integration (including first-year and capstone courses) to individual assignments within a course. At whatever scale, PBL typically includes the following characteristics:

  • An engaging and meaningful problem or question to explore at the appropriate level of challenge.
  • An intentional structure to build knowledge iteratively – As students research their problem or question, more questions are likely to emerge. Students may need to use a variety of methods to find and analyze possible solutions, including qualitative interviews from stakeholders impacted by the problem being researched.
  • Teaching methods that promote student autonomy – PBL centers student ownership of how they approach their problems. PBL encourages students to have the authority to make design choices.
  • Receiving feedback and revising – Student autonomy does not mean that faculty do not have a role in shaping the project. Faculty need to provide formative feedback over the life of the project (typically extending over weeks or months) and act as coaches and mentors.
  • Attention to process – As students typically work in teams, attending to interpersonal skills is critical to project success. Supporting students in creating equitable teams that can resolve conflict productively is an essential component of PBL.
  • Includes opportunities for reflection – PBL recognizes that reflection on one’s experiences contributes to deep learning and meaning-making.
  • Sharing project work publicly – With its emphasis on “real world” experiences, PBL asks that students present their work (i.e., a detailed report, artifact, plan, performance, or video) to their peers and other stakeholders.

Resources for Digging Deeper

From the Center for Project-Based Learning at Worcester Polytechnic Institute:

Project-Based Learning Start Here (Cult of Pedagogy)

“New Research Makes a Powerful Case for PBL” (Terada, Edutopia, 2021)