Project-Based Learning

Project-based learning (PBL) provides opportunities for in-depth content mastery and improved student engagement. At profiled districts, teachers design PBL units or courses around standards that relate to a real-life issue, organization, medium, or activity (i.e., an authentic audience) to assess students and measure content mastery.

In our research, profiled districts implement one of three different models of project-based learning (PBL): blended PBL teaching methods, PBL courses, or PBL tracks. They implemented PBL to provide students with an opportunity to conduct in-depth exploration of course topics through applied learning. Administrators at profiled districts encourage teachers to explore the connection between academic standards and the application of those standards to design projects that assess students’ content mastery in an applied setting. Teachers’ PBL skills can be developed through initial professional development sessions and subsequent, wraparound supports.