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Since early 2020, education worldwide has taken an entirely new approach. School systems from public school to homeschooling have taken a hit, but not necessarily for the worse. New teaching techniques and methods have sprouted, with some older ones getting face lifts and much needed updates. One in particular is project-based learning. This isn’t a new concept, but it’s one that wasn’t at the top of the list until now.
What is project-based learning?
In a nutshell, project-based learning is a teaching method that uses real-world and personally engaging experiences to help children learn a variety of concepts and skills. When used in its full capacity, students work for an extended amount of time to investigate and learn how to respond to a series of complex questions, problems, and challenges. The overall goal is to teach materials in a way that leads to a deeper knowledge and understanding of a concept. As well as provide learners with hands-on experiences.
5 Benefits of Project-Based Learning
Knowing what project-based learning is, let’s look at some benefits to using it in your classroom, homeschool, CO-OP, and/or learning pod.
Project-based learning enhances children’s thought process.
Critical thinking is one of the top characteristics fostered when using this method because student’s will be taught how to look at problems in-depth. They will be asked questions where instead of the answer being given, they will have to formulate an their own answers based on their level of understanding.
Self-esteem and confidence are boosted through project-based learning.
Because of the individuality and uniqueness fostered through project-based learning, students are able to find their voice while taking pride in the work they are completing. The more projects they work on, the more they learn to take ownership, reflect, and celebrate their accomplishments It becomes a matter of natural learning versus learning for a test or grade.
Project-based learning teaches problem-solving skills and perseverance.
Most, if not all, projects will require students to solve real-life issues. These issues can be anything from fixing a problem in the community, making something run smoother in school/home, or finding a better solution for a policy or law. Through this, they will learn how to problem-solve, learn from failed solutions, and practice what it means to work through obstacles.
Project-based learning fosters creativity and curiosity.
Through solving a variety of issues, students are able to utilize innovative ways to create solutions. Exploring their curiosities will lead to deeper critical thinking, asking questions to gain better understanding, and an overall love for learning. All students are creative and curious to some extent and project-based learning helps bring it out.
Project-based learning teaches students how to work with others.
Collaboration happens quite often in project-based learning; therefore, students will have ample opportunities to work alongside their peers. They will learn how to get along with others, provide their own input, listen to others, and resolve conflicts in meaningful ways. Through this process, relationships are built and life skills are taught that will follow them all through adulthood.
How to Use Project-Based Learning
Regardless if you’re using this in your classroom, homeschool, CO-OP program or learning pod, it’s easy to incorporate project-based learning. Here’s how:
- Place students in small groups (no more than 5 in a group).
- Choose a project topic (or have students formulate one themselves).
- Ask each group to brainstorm ideas and solutions for the topic.
- Invite each group to research together.
- Challenge each group to put together a presentation of some sort to share their combined answers.
- Finally, have each group present their project to the other learners.
With each step, be prepared to give feedback and have discussions.
Project Ideas
Here are some project ideas that can be scaled up or down depending on the age and grade range and abilities of your students:
- Identify local problems that could use new solutions.
- Come up with new and/or alternative energy sources.
- Analyze an elective (such as photography, art, dance, etc.).
- Share a stance on a popular debate.
As you can see, project-based learning has many benefits and can easily be incorporated into a child’s educational experience. They are also a hands-on way to approach tough subjects and gives students the ability to learn outside the box. This approach is also compatible with every learning style, giving every student the ability to learn in their best ways. Have you used this method before? Let me know in the comments below!