PBL TESOL I

What is Project-Based Learning?

It is a student-centered method of instruction that emphasizes active learning.

Its main goal is the completion of projects inspired by real-life inquiries and scenarios through research, collaboration, and communication with the purpose of achieving meaningful learning.

​(Kokotsaki et al., 2016)

3 constructivist principles:

• Learning must be in accordance to the context of the students.

• The students must be actively involved in the educational process.

• Social interactions and communication as a way to share knowledge and achieve pedagogical goals.

​(Kokotsaki et al., 2016)

​Process of Implementation

• The content should be significant and chosen to meet the needs and interests of students.

• The topic should be introduced in an engaging way and attached to their previous knowledge.

• Creation of a "Driving Question": It should be challenging and open-ended.

​Process of Implementation

• Development of the project: students should have freedom in the research and application process, they should be encouraged to use their creativity, be independent learners, and use 21st Century Skills.

• After the "Driving Question" has been answered, the students will share their findings with the class.

• Feedback and revision from teachers, students, and themselves.

• Final presentation of the project.

​(Aldabbus, 2018)

​Benefits

• Space for a variety of topics and tasks.

• Removes the gap between theory and practice, knowledge and thinking.

• Ludic method of instruction that provides enjoyment to the students.

• Sense of achievement.

• Development of a tangible end product.

• It caters to different sets of skills, promoting heterogeneity.

• Integrates language skills and balances the need for fluency and accuracy.

​(Rousová, 2008)

Students need access to materials and sources.

For instance., the classrooms into subject-themed areas that display a variety of learning materials.

Think information access

Emphasis on group work. Hence, the learning spaces must be organized so it foments collaboration.

Find innovative alternatives to traditional desks.

​Learning spaces set tone

PBL classrooms are unpredictable in nature. Therefore, teachers must be flexible, supportive, and engaged in the educational process.

See the teacher as the ultimate resource

​(TeachThought Staff, 2020)

​Tips for implementing PBL

• Clearly define your purpose for implementing PBL.

• Hold brainstorming sessions.

• Develop ill-structured problems.

• Allow time for collaboration.

• Emphasize depth over breadth.

• Conduct regular assessments.

• Hold class discussions

• Facilitate peer feedback.

• Assess authentically.

​(Saga Briggs, 2015)

PBL helps to:

• Develop creative and problem-solving skills.

• Recognize the importance of collaboration.

• Research and adaptation skills.

• Independent learning and project management.

• Be technologically literate and use ICTs to navigate the globalized world.

​References

Aldabbus, S. (2018). Project-Based Learning: Implementation & Challenges. International Journal of Education, Learning and Development, 6(3), 71–79. https://www.eajournals.org/wp-content/uploads/Project-Based-Learning-Implementation-Challenges.pdf

Briggs, S. (2016, November 13). 10 Tips For Effective Problem-Based Learning: The Ultimate Instructional Solution | InformED. InformED. https://www.opencolleges.edu.au/informed/features/problem-based

Kokotsaki, D., Menzies, V., & Wiggins, A. (2016). Project-Based Learning: A review of the literature. Improving Schools, 19(3), 267–277. https://doi.org/10.1177/1365480216659733

Rousová, V. (2008). Project-Based Learning: Halloween Party (thesis). Retrieved 2023, from https://is.muni.cz/th/qzgwd/Diplomova_prace.pdf.

Staff, T. (2022). 4 Keys To Designing A Project-Based Learning Classroom.

Teach Thought. https://www.teachthought.com/pedagogy/designing-project-based-learning/#google_vignette