What is Project-Based Learning? Guide on Project Based Learning (PBL)

Bob Talbert once quoted -

“Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best.”

I believe it’s exactly what needs to be implemented!

There are enough theories that claim to be the best in the market when it comes to the transformational teaching-learning process. However, in reality, all that is being taught in the educational institutions is – old & boring syllabus.

The syllabus speaks of just the theoretical aspects.

The only way to break the old chain is to introduce – “Project-based learning!”

I will explain to you the what, why, how’s of project-based learning in detail. Just keep on reading the guide to understanding the entire benefits of project-based learning, along with its real-time examples.

Here’s everything you would want to know about project-based learning –

What is Project-Based Learning (PBL)?

Project Based Learning (PBL) is a unique teaching methodology that enhances the overall development of students including their academic knowledge and skills like critical thinking, analytical skills, and much more.

Unlike the traditional teaching-learning process that believes in explaining the theory part of any subject, project-based learning focuses on imparting practical examples by enabling students to solve real-time problems.

Still, confused?

The next section will be helpful!

Examples of Project-Based Learning (PBL)

Let’s dive into more details about PBL by understanding some of the examples that depict how it differs from the traditional classroom setting.

I am choosing some of the difficult subjects where students need projects to grasp the concepts well.

CASE #1: Learning Mathematics

Mathematics – this subject still gives me chills whenever I remind myself of the time when I used to get poor grades. Anyways, let’s not get into that!

Coming back to my point, mathematics may seem tough to some students. So, instead of writing down formulae on the board and asking students to solve the problems, some other steps can be taken.

As a teacher, you may ask the students to observe a set of different tools like triangle, square, rectangle, and so on. You may ask them to note various angles and then understand how it works. The students need to understand how the formulae are made and then get into the solving part.

This practice will create a better engagement and help them learn mathematics effectively.

CASE #2: Learning Botany

Botany – the study of plants and trees may seem difficult to some students.

I mean, some students may find it boring!

However, to help students learn it well and actively study it to make a good score, you may ask them to visit the garden. Furthermore, ask them to observe various flowers, trees, and plants to understand their shape, properties, and medicinal values.

It would help them enjoy nature as well as clear their concepts!

CASE #3: Learning History

I am yet to find a student who enjoys learning history.

Well, exceptions are many but most students don’t like the history subject.

To make it interesting, you may ask students to research freedom fighters and take them for a picnic in ancient historical places.

Similarly, you can arrange some projects for other subjects to create an interesting, effective, and engaging learning session.

How does PBL differ from “doing a project”?

Doing a project primarily refers to the projects that are done at the end of the semester or unit after the "main course." Making projects can be fun and creative, but it is a superficial learning experience. Project-based learning (PBL) requires students to reflect on how to respond to critical real-time situations.PBL is more process-oriented and student-centered.

Let us understand the difference between PBL and ‘Doing a Project:

Project-Based Learning (PBL)	Doing a Project
Mainly driven by student doubts and inquiries	Primarily follows the teacher's instructions
Primarily concerned with process and product	Prime focus on product
Specifically aligned to academic standards and success skills	Often unrelated to standards and skills
Involves collaboration with students and in-class guidance from the teacher	Can be completed alone and/or at home with less teamwork
Has a real-world context and application and audiences are in the real world	Remains within the school, and the school itself is the audience
Is organic and open-ended	Is pre-planned and clear
Problem- and opportunity-based	Model- and assignment-based
Typically, teacher work occurs prior to the start of the project	The teacher work occurs mainly after the project is complete
Is graded based on a clearly defined rubric made or modified specifically for the project	Are often graded based on teacher perceptions that may or may not be explicitly shared with students, such as neatness
Is open: students make choices that determine the outcome and path of the research	Are closed; every project has the same goal

With PBL, the project done is the "main course" and has some value attached to it, unlike a project, which can be repeated year after year with no real value and collaboration among peers and teachers. PBL offers the framework for student learning in the unit/course.

Top Benefits of Project-based Learning (PBL)

Now that you have understood the concept and examples of project-based learning, it’s time for you to learn the top benefits of project based learning.

1. Multiple Skills Development

The PBL offers numerous opportunities for students to learn & develop new skills that would help them clear their exams as well as make them career-ready.

As a teacher, you get the freedom to upload smart online assessments that would help them grow.

After all, life-long learning is the ultimate aim of education.

2. Student Engagement at its Best

As a teacher, you may be facing issues with student engagement, right?

Engaging students becomes easier with project based learning.

All you need is to implement educational ERP software that helps in implementing the project based learning model.

3. Better Teacher-Student Collaboration & Communication

As a faculty, you get students’ support as they would love the way you teach!

This in return can maximize the teaching-learning collaboration & nurture your relationship with your students.

4. Feedback on the Projects

As a faculty, you may arrange a number of projects.

However, it’s not necessary that the students would like the projects in terms of its complexity. Sometimes, your project may appear to be too tough.

Here, students can give you feedback about the projects. It makes a new pathway to implement better projects.

5. Immensely Satisfactory Journey

When students enjoy what they are learning, they would enjoy coming to the schools and be happy with every project they get their hands on. It will allow them to stay curious and get into the details of the concept.

Thus, making their learning journey as a student, immensely satisfactory!

Disadvantages of Project Based Learning (PBL)

Now, you might be wondering about the disadvantages of project-based learning. To your surprise, there aren’t many in terms of providing “quality education” to students.

However, you may find it difficult to –

• Implement project-based learning model
• Finding an ERP that would simplify the process
• Searching for a reliable technology partner
• Uploading simple projects on the portal
• Mapping student progress with respect to projects

The solution?

The only solution is to find an edTech provider that would simplify the implementation process and help you establish the project-based earning model.

Get in touch with my team of ERP professionals to get a genuine roadmap on the implementation of project-based learning and educational ERP software.

Let’s transform the educational landscape with the best educational technology!

Yes, we provide PBL training for educators!

MasterSoft can assist in implementing project-based learning models in your institute and provide the necessary training to faculty so that it can be seamlessly incorporated into the class. Additionally, as an ERP solution provider, we ensure to simplify the entire process of PBL, guide users in uploading their PBL-related projects, and provide teachers with the resources they need.