EDTECH 542: What is PBL?

Group 1: What is Project Based Learning?

1. Define PBL.  Describe the differences between Project & Problem Based Learning.

Project Based Learning is an approach to learning where the curriculum/standards are met through student produced projects that involve exploring a driving question based in reality through a process of inquiry whose direction is determined/designed by a collaborative group of students and facilitated by the teacher. (Thomas, J.W., pp.1-3)

While Problem Based Learning and Project Based Learning are very similar there are two major differences.  Problem Based Learning may or may not include a student made end project and its presentation.  Problem Based Learning is also based on an ill-structured problem, meaning a problem that recognizes divergent perspectives and varied proposals rather than a single solution. (Jonassen, D.H., pp.78-79)

Example:

Problem Based – If you won $100,000 to use towards housing how would you spend it?  (students could have several answers and must support their decision through research and problem solving)

Project Based – If you won $100,000 to use for building a house and could only spend that much, design your house.  (students could have various designs but also must make budgets, locate supplies, have contractors, etc. and end up with a house design, budgets, and work plan)

2.  Why should teachers consider incorporating PBL in their classroom?

Students must meet standards which involve a real world application through the PBL project.  Students often retain this knowledge more and can apply that knowledge in new situations better than when learned in a traditional fashion.  Students must also use and demonstrate the 21^st century skills of collaboration, solving problems, and communication.  Technology is used in a realistic fashion with information finding, collaboration, and in developing project presentations. (BIE.org)

3. What are the essential components of a PBL approach to instruction.

Many of the essential components lie in the definition of PBL.  There are several other significant elements.  One is  “voice and choice.”  While the teacher may lead students with the driving question, students must create and design their process and product.  Once students develop their product, they need to present it to a public audience other than classmates.  The students should be motivated by a question that truly is interesting and leads them to want to gain knowledge.

A favorite quote:

"If the central activities of the project represent no difficulty to the student or can be carried out with the application of already learned information or skills, the project is an exercise, not a PBL project." (Thomas)

Sources:

BIE (n.d.). What is PBL? Buck Institute for Education. Retrieved June 10, 2014, from http://bie.org/about/why_pbl

Jonassen, D. H. (1997). Instructional design models for well-structured and III-structured problem-solving learning outcomes. Educational Technology Research and Development, 45(1), 65-94.

Hallermann, S., Larmer, J., Mergendoller, J. R., & Buck Institute for Education. (2011).PBL in the elementary grades: Step-by-step guidance, tools and tips for standards-focused K-5 projects. Novato, CA: Buck Institute for Education.

Thomas, J. W. (2000). A review of research on project-based learning. from http://w.newtechnetwork.org/sites/default/files/news/pbl_research2.pdf