What are the Advantages of Project-Based Learning?
Project-Based learning is a teaching method where students gain knowledge by working to investigate and respond to a complex question, problem, or challenge for an extended period of time. To properly implement PBL, and access the advantages of this type of learning, these essential elements must be put into place: key knowledge and skills, a challenging problem or question, sustained inquiry, authenticity, student choice, reflection, revision, and public product. Based on recent research studies, some advantages include, increased retention of content, improvement of students’ attitudes towards learning, students working collaboratively on simulated real-world problems, and the increase in test scores. A study also found that 63% of students in a PBL classroom earned higher test scores in social studies compared to those in the control classroom. An example of effective PBL is in a first grade classroom students learn how to successfully raise trout and able to communicate to others how to do the same. In this example, students worked collaboratively over a period of time to answer the question, “How do we teach other to successfully raise trout eggs and help them understand the importance of keeping our watersheds healthy?” The implementation of project-based learning gives students the opportunity to learn in a hands-on environment and provides a different approach to the material.
EDUC 330, Child Development
Brian Kaelin
L203, Poster 1
10 AM – Noon