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Project-Based and Problem-Based Learning

What Is It?

Project-based learning is an instructional strategy in which students work cooperatively over time to create a product, presentation, or performance. The two essential components of project-based learning are an engaging and motivating question and a product that meaningfully addresses that question.

Important characteristics of project-based learning, according to The Road Ahead Background Papers, a report prepared by ISTE, include the following:

• Students can shape the project to fit their own interests and abilities.
• Students collect and analyze information, make discoveries, and report their results.
• Students conduct research using multiple sources of information.
• The project cuts across a number of disciplines.
• Students must draw on a broad range of knowledge and skills.
• The project extends over a significant period of time.
• The project involves the design and development of a product, presentation, or performance that can be used or viewed by others.
• The context for the subject matter is larger than the immediate lesson.
• The instruction and facilitation is guided by a broad range of teaching goals.

Problem-based learning is an instructional strategy in which students work cooperatively to investigate and resolve an ill-structured problem based on real-world issues or situations. The steps involved in problem-based learning include:

• determining what the problem is;
• creating a specific statement of the problem;
• identifying the information needed;
• identifying the resources to be used to find that information;
• developing a possible solution;
• analyzing and refining the solution;
• presenting the final solution, orally and/or in writing.

Project-based learning and problem-based learning have a great deal in common. Both

• involve realistic problems and situations.
• are based on authentic educational goals.
• include formative and summative evaluation,
• are learner centered and teacher facilitated.
• are intrinsically engaging and motivating.
• are frequently multidisciplinary.
• Improve students' research and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to work cooperatively with their peers.

The difference between the two lies largely in their application: Problem-based learning focuses on the problem and the process, while project-based learning focuses on the product.

For more information about project based-learning, explore the following Web sites:

• Project Based Learning
• Project-Based Learning
• The Project Approach
• Project-Based Learning Space: Background Knowledge and Theory
• PBL Workshop or Short Course

Explore Problem-Based Learning

For more information about problem-based learning, explore these Web sites:

• Problem Based Learning
• Problem-Based Learning
• What is Problem-Based Learning?

The activities and tools below will help you successfully use project-based learning in your own classroom.

A Project-Based Learning Activity for Teachers