An Introduction to Project Based Learning

Project Based Learning (PBL) is a concept that has come up quite frequently in previous SUNY masters classes. My understanding of PBL is that it is a hands-on way of learning that is directed by the students in order to ensure a broader understanding of concepts through a project. After watching the video, this idea was reinforced. PBL is an effective way to teach were students are given real tasks to solve in order to show what their understanding is.

In the Early Childhood Center we guide our students through several projects. Due to their age limitations the central idea must always be very concise in what aspect or area we want our students to focus, yet it is their own imagination, knowledge and drive which lets them create their own project whether it is individual or as a group.

ASF in general follows PBL throughout all grades. Whether it is in the fourth grade “operas”, where students direct their own opera whilst applying and reinforcing concepts learned in the classroom, or an Upper School Science Fair where student’s ideas are put into action to show, prove or demonstrate their understanding.

In my perspective PBL has many positive aspects due to its nature where students are putting all of their potential into a project. PBL may offer certain limitations such as but not necessarily limited to lack of attention of both students and/or teachers, information overload, disruption when students are working in teams as well as each student’s role in the team. However, though, I truly favor a PBL approach to that of traditional “tell me” teaching approach.