Project-based learning: definition, benefits and ideas

Project-based learning is a teaching method in which students apply an active inquiry approach to real-world challenges and problems.

Organizing and implementing the project-based learning method of teaching includes a commitment on the part of all those involved to carry out activities in which the investigation of authentic real-world problems, the development of solutions and discussion are key. 

To provide you with an approach to this type of teaching, in this article we will take you by the hand through the subject. We will start by explaining what project-based learning is, then we will show you its benefits and end by sharing with you a series of ideas related to the subject.  

What is project-based learning?

Project-based learning or PBL is a teaching method in which the curriculum takes the student as the center of reference to develop learning through research, questions and the resolution of non-fictional situations in the real world.

The teacher’s role is one of accompaniment and does not instruct the students, but rather it is the students who face a learning process that must be open, participatory and focused on critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity.

PBL is such an attractive process as to encourage students to engage in it and develop their own approaches by delving deeper into answers and solutions to present a final resolute result. 

With the final presentation of the prototypes, students show the problems solved, the research processes and methods used, as well as the results obtained. 

From all this, they can receive feedback and undergo a review of the plans and the projects as if it were one in real life. 

9 benefits of project-based learning

Implementing a curriculum focused on project-based learning brings a number of benefits that we detail below:

Strengthens long-term retention of what is learned 

The direct research process to find solutions, measures and tools, as well as the practical involvement in the resolution of the project, make the learning more established and last longer in the student’s memory.  

On the other hand, the fact of being personally involved makes the concentration on learning to be more intense and the final performance also yields better results.

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It generates intrinsic motivation and engagement 

The student’s participation in this type of teaching is voluntary and is usually a response to a self-motivation to learn in a different way. 

Believing that this is the learning that best fits their expectations of study, leads the student to a greater commitment to the project. 

Improves technological skills

The irruption of ICTs in education has meant a wonderful discovery of the power of technology when it comes to improving learning processes. 

Among the tools to consult and use, the technological ones are especially relevant, helping the student to carry out research with a much wider range of sources consulted -always under the premise of respect for digital privacy– and with a saving of search times also to be taken into account. 

Enhances project management competence

Students are submitted to the resolutions by themselves -or in a team- of a project based on real problems. 

The achievement of the project is obtained by going through the whole management process from the beginning to the end. 

Project-based learning can be focused on large, long projects or on smaller projects. Also, as we have anticipated, it can correspond to a solo project or to collaborative projects with other students with whom to form a team. 

Encourages active and continuous learning

Tackling a possibly unfamiliar starting project involves a thorough investigation of topics and resources that perfectly symbolizes active learning. 

Students search for the resources and means that will help them create the prototype of the final project to be presented. 

Once students have discovered the benefits of research and documentation, their receptiveness to participate naturally in continuous learning processes is self-evident.

Develops communication skills

The learner must be able to communicate with others the needs, solutions or results they are obtaining as their work progresses.

Whether we focus on communication with other team members, when the project so requires, or if we talk about a solo project, in all cases the ability to communicate the aspects mentioned in the previous paragraph are key to a successful achievement. 

If communication fails, does not exist or is erroneous, the factors associated with it, such as the correct understanding of the project, can be compromised. 

In addition to presenting their impressions and views, learners must be able to listen to the opinions of others. 

Boosts collaborative and teamwork skills

Collaborative and teamwork skills are directly related to communication and engagement, and help the learner develop relationships that are key to their academic and personal growth.

These collaborative skills end up extending and creating a development of peers, professional networks and members of the industry. 

Reinforces creativity

Students enrolled in project-based learning programs are more predisposed to think innovatively and creatively. 

This is logical when you consider that they have total freedom to explore different approaches and methods, as well as being an excellent opportunity to express their personality and talent through their work. 

Enhances critical thinking and problem solving skills 

This benefit makes sense, since the student is confronted with the pragmatic resolution of problems that are not solved in textbooks. 

We are not talking about a traditional study, in this case thinking beyond the established and collected is the key to move the project forward. 

10 ideas for project-based learning

There is a multitude of options that fit in the project-based learning, so we will use a battery of 10 ideas so that from them you can think of a better development of those mentioned or so that having these references you can think of your own. 

1. Design of a community garden. 
2. Create prototypes of accessories for existing machinery. 
3. Innovate recipes based on new cooking techniques.
4. Design food programs for people with specific health problems.  
5. Simulate trials on specific causes. 
6. Create sustainable city plans. 
7. Research new technological applications based on renewable energies. 
8. Create interactive digital maps of specific regions. 
9. Research specific artistic movements and create their own works inspired by these movements.
10. Create reports with different statistics to identify patterns of behavior after analyzing the data. After that, develop strategies for prevention or problem solving. 

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