Project-Based Learning

Project-based learning is a dynamic classroom approach in which students actively explore real-world problems and challenges and acquire a deeper knowledge.

Overview

What is Project-Based Learning?

Project-based learning is a dynamic approach to teaching in which students explore real-world problems and challenges. With this type of active and engaged learning, students are inspired to obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects they're studying. Watch an introduction video.

History

What's the History of PBL?

Confucius and Aristotle were early proponents of learning by doing. Socrates modeled how to learn through questioning, inquiry, and critical thinking -- all strategies that remain very relevant in today's PBL classrooms. Learn more.

Experts

What the Experts Say

"One of the major advantages of project work is that it makes school more like real life." --Sylvia Chard, University of Alberta See what other experts say.

Research

Research: Studies on PBL Success

Did you know PBL students remember learned content for longer periods of time? Did you know PBL students view themselves as better prepared in problem solving and perform better in tasks that emphasize understanding and application of knowledge? Dig deeper.

DiscussExpand

Ten Tips for Personalized Learning via Technology

Last comment 10 hours 1 min ago

32 3,009 66,772 views

Core Strategies for Innovation and Reform in Learning

Last comment 2 weeks 3 hours ago

12 279 223,953 views

Snow Days: Technology Brings the Arctic Wilderness Up Close

Last comment 3 weeks 4 days ago

1 3,081 views

Ten Tips for Personalized Learning via Technology

Mon, 04/26/2010 - 12:32

32 3,009 66,772 views

Hoist the Sails: The Great Quest for a Play-Based Classroom

Thu, 11/03/2016 - 12:00

4 884 13,454 views

Helping Students Become Engaged Citizens

Thu, 09/14/2017 - 12:00

1 495 2,748 views

WatchExpand

Project-Based Learning Videos See More Videos

Browse

Students collaborate on an environmental project.

Article

Helping Students Become Engaged Citizens

Project ideas to help your students realize the impact they can have on their community and beyond.

1 495 2,748 views

A group of teachers watch as a fellow teacher makes a presentation on a project.

Article

Get a Taste of PBL Before Your Students Do

Project slices—condensed project-based learning for teachers—give educators a student’s perspective on what it’s like to do a project.

1 424 4,423 views

A group of students discuss a driving question with their teacher.

Article

In Search of the Driving Question

Coming up with the driving question in project-based learning is often the hard part, so we’ve got some ideas to help you craft a great one.

3 524 4,957 views

Students and teachers at the author’s school sit at a table to discuss a project.

Article

Using PBL to Meet C3 Social Studies Standards

Project-based learning aligns with and enhances the College, Career, and Civic Life Framework for Social Studies State Standards.

174 476 views

Several high school students seated at a table in discussion with an adult.

Article

Real-World Applications of Classroom Learning

Project-based learning ideas that have your students collaborate with peers around the world and apply their learning to make a difference.

373 4,270 views

A collage of four photos of students and staff at Iowa BIG High School around campus

Article

Partnership Strategies for Real-World Projects

Students gain by taking on interdisciplinary projects with community nonprofits, businesses, and government agencies.

558 2,383 views

Illustration of a clock taking off like a rocket, with pens, paper, a tablet computer, and other items in a cloud above it

Article

Standards-Aligned Genius Hour

Give your students a chance to follow their own interests with projects that meet state standards.

9 1,418 7,831 views

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Article

Twenty Ideas for Engaging Projects

Blogger Suzie Boss shares 20 ideas for getting engaging projects going in your classroom.

20 730 530,332 views

Article

3 Ways to Plan for Diverse Learners: What Teachers Do

Teachers aiming to differentiate learning in their classroom can focus on content, process, and product in giving students opportunities to grow and shine as individuals.

57 3,909 383,664 views

An young girl with rainbow-knitted headphones is sitting at a table with her female teacher. They're both looking at a long, thin sheet of paper, and the young girl is holding the tip of the pencil against the paper, pointing at something.

Article

6 Strategies for Differentiated Instruction in Project-Based Learning

Blogger Andrew Miller offers six simple, effective approaches to differentiated instruction in project-based learning.

19 6,886 244,055 views

article

Ten Steps to Better Student Engagement

Project-learning teaching strategies can also improve your everyday classroom experience.

82 877 234,766 views

Article

Designing Science Inquiry: Claim + Evidence + Reasoning = Explanation

Edutopia blogger Eric Brunsell breaks scientific inquiry down into the basic CER model and offers suggestions for introducing it to students.

4 73 229,715 views

article

Core Strategies for Innovation and Reform in Learning

See an overview of Edutopia's core strategies, including project-based learning, social-emotional learning, comprehensive assessment, technology integration, integrated studies and teacher development.

12 279 223,953 views

Article