Projects vs. Project-Based Learning
This presentation covers the differences between projects and project-based learning in our schools. Often these two methods get confused, as they both circulate around a project. However, there is a difference to the two methods. Through our research we found differences in the two, examples, benefits and disadvantages to these practices. Projects are individual or collaborative work that is planned and designed with a particular aim. These are often teacher directed and done after the learning to demonstrate what they learned. Some examples are book reports, poster projects, and an art project. Project-based learning are projects done over an extended period of time that engages students in solving a complex real-world problem and solving the problem. This method is student-directed as students are leading the investigation and problem solving. Examples are coming up with ideas to improve the community, a science project with its results presented to the public and acting out a scene from a famous piece of literature. Schools tend to stick to the traditional methods of projects rather than implementing a project-based system into their lessons because this style of projects “fit” easier into their scheduling and curriculum given by the school board. However, research shows that students under a project-based learning have higher test scores and are better prepare for their future in future education and work.
EDUC 330, Child Development
Brian Kaelin
L203, Poster 3
10 AM – Noon