How can you get learners to work together on projects?

1 Choose a relevant and engaging topic

The first step to get learners to work together on projects is to choose a topic that is relevant to their interests, needs, and context. The topic should also be engaging and open-ended, allowing learners to explore, investigate, and create something meaningful. You can use various methods to select a topic, such as brainstorming, surveying, or voting. Alternatively, you can let learners propose their own topics based on their passions, curiosities, or problems they want to solve.

2 Define clear and achievable outcomes

The next step is to define the learning outcomes and expectations for the project. What do you want learners to know, do, and demonstrate by the end of the project? How will you assess their progress and performance? How will you provide feedback and guidance along the way? You should communicate these outcomes and expectations clearly and explicitly to the learners, and make sure they are aligned with the curriculum standards, the project topic, and the available resources and time.

3 Organize and scaffold the project process

The third step is to organize and scaffold the project process, so that learners have a clear roadmap and structure to follow. You can use different models and frameworks to guide the project process, such as the inquiry cycle, the design thinking process, or the project management cycle. You should also provide learners with tools and resources to help them plan, research, create, and present their projects, such as templates, checklists, rubrics, or digital platforms. Additionally, you should scaffold the project process by breaking it down into manageable tasks, milestones, and deadlines.

4 Form and support diverse and collaborative teams

The fourth step is to form and support diverse and collaborative teams of learners who will work together on the project. You can use various criteria to form teams, such as skills, interests, backgrounds, or preferences. You should also consider the optimal size and composition of the teams, depending on the project scope and complexity. Moreover, you should support the teams by establishing norms and roles, facilitating communication and interaction, and promoting positive interdependence and accountability.

5 Encourage and monitor learner engagement

The fifth step is to encourage and monitor learner engagement throughout the project. You can use different strategies to motivate and inspire learners, such as providing choice and autonomy, connecting to real-world issues and audiences, or incorporating gamification elements. You can also use different methods to monitor and measure learner engagement, such as surveys, analytics, or observations. Furthermore, you should intervene and assist learners when they face challenges, difficulties, or conflicts during the project.

6 Celebrate and reflect on the project outcomes

The final step is to celebrate and reflect on the project outcomes and achievements. You can use different formats and platforms to showcase and share the project outcomes, such as portfolios, blogs, podcasts, or videos. You can also invite feedback and comments from peers, experts, or other stakeholders. Additionally, you should encourage learners to reflect on their learning process and outcomes, such as what they learned, how they learned, what they enjoyed, what they struggled with, or what they would do differently next time.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?