The Benefits of Implementing Project Based Learning
Ever had that one class in school you couldn’t forget? The one that gave you a chance to follow your curiosity, create something magical from scratch, and learn more than you ever could from a textbook? Welcome to the world of project-based learning!
Project-based learning isn’t just another trend in educational practices – it’s a game changer. Imagine students experiencing the thrill of launching rockets to understand physics or creating a mini ecosystem to study biodiversity. You’re not just memorising for the tick box, you’re understanding, absorbing and creating. It takes education beyond the classroom and transforms it into an application that can engage, inspire and set a path for lifelong curiosity.
Traditional education often compartmentalises knowledge and skills, leaving students wondering, “When will I ever use this?” Project Based Learning offers the antidote. By integrating recently acquired skills and knowledge into tangible projects, students get to apply what they’ve learned in meaningful contexts. Whether it’s calculating the area of a garden bed, writing persuasive letters to address real issues, or designing models of historical landmarks, PBL bridges the gap between theory and practice. They understand the “why” behind the curriculum, which fuels intrinsic motivation. Students are no longer passive recipients of information; they become active participants in their own education.
The New Zealand Curriculum emphasises the importance of developing key competencies, and Project Based Learning aligns perfectly with this vision. Collaboration, communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills naturally flourish when students work on projects that require teamwork, research and innovation. Project Based Learning isn’t just about content; it’s about nurturing well-rounded, capable individuals ready to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
In a rapidly evolving world, the ability to acquire knowledge when it’s needed is invaluable. PBL provides a platform for “just-in-time learning.” Students research, gather information, and acquire new skills precisely when they need them to solve real-world problems. This not only enhances their adaptability but also demonstrates the practical relevance of education.
Now, you might be wondering how PBL aligns with play-based learning. Well, they’re like two peas in a pod! Play-based learning provides the foundation for PBL, as it encourages exploration, creativity and problem-solving. It’s the ideal launchpad and backbone for students to embark on PBL adventures with enthusiasm and confidence. Both can occur simultaneously or PBL can be an extension of a passion developed during play.
If educators are feeling overwhelmed or don’t yet have the belief their kids are capable (Which, of course, they are, by the way.) then start small, maybe with a class or group project guided by the teacher. As confidence is gained, gradually progress to individual projects with the teacher becoming more of a facilitator offering check-ins, guidance and encouragement.
So, take the plunge into project-based learning! Together, we can shape a brighter future for our students, one where learning isn’t just about acquiring knowledge but also about making it come alive through meaningful projects.
Use the below tips to help you embark on this exciting journey of making learning truly real!
1. Understand your vision for the learners in front of you – YOUR why.
2. Rethink your classroom setup to ensure you are living and breathing your vision all day, everyday. Do you want learners to manage themselves? If so, do you let them go to the toilet without asking or have uncontrolled access to the resources they may want?
3. Choose a process you will follow, introduce it to your learners and give it a try!
4. Remember, project based learning is a scale. To begin, your project might be whole class and quite teacher guided. This is how you teach the process along with supporting learners to follow this process. From there you can begin to support learners to have more agency over more bits of their own projects until you reach a point where learners are driving the whole process. You might start with a ready made project to help them.