Project-based learning is a process of learning through problem solving, where students are given a real-world problem and develop a solution. It’s often cross-curricular in nature, allowing students to apply multiple skills and learn through inquiry and design. There are a number of benefits to teaching with a project-based learning model, but here are a few for you to consider.

Building in accommodations is easy

When working as a team, each student can use their strengths to contribute to the process. It’s also easy to build in visuals, checklists, audio, and video to support students who learn differently when designing a lesson that is student-centered.

Teamwork makes the dream work

Collaboration is key to project-based learning. Students discuss ideas and learn through problem-solving. Along the way, they also learn social skills as they interact with others in a group. Having assigned or self-selected team roles helps everyone working on a task that contributes to the group.

Hands-on experiences lead to lasting memories

Whether designing an experiment or building a model, research shows that our brains form lasting memories around interactive experiences. Project-based learning is centered around experiences that are authentic and offer as much making, doing, and exploring as possible. This means that students are more likely to understand and retain what is taught through this method and have an easier time applying knowledge and skills later in other contexts.

Student-centered

The key to successful project-based learning is that it centers around ideas and interests of individual students. The students are the ones asking questions, discussing ideas, building prototypes, and creating solutions to problems. This way, each lesson is personalized to accommodate and challenge individuals to learn new information and skills at their own level and pace. The same topic can be explored from multiple view points and different directions.

Practice for “real life”

Project-based learning centers around real world problems and authentic experiences. When possible students are provided with real methods, research, and tools used by experts in the fields of science, technology, design, history, and art. Moving beyond worksheets and quizzes, students are tasked to participate actively in problem solving the same way adults in various fields are asked every day.