What are the best ways to use project-based learning in online higher education?

PBL is a way to build problem-solving and creative capacity in students. Choosing a relevant project that helps students understand the relevance of sustainability and social good will improve our society and communities.

Project Based Learning is really about the application of skills and acumen learned. As such, the validation of knowledge and skills are not subject to traditional assessments, which really are only assessing ones ability to execute rote learning. They are, ideally, putting students in "real-world" situations, one they may encounter in their career one day. This kind of skill-building and learning based on projects, really help to give the student an experiential style of learning, while also evaluating their skills in a more realistic setting.

Project-based learning thrives when the projects are both relevant to the course material and realistic in terms of what students can achieve. For instance, in an online MBA program, a project involving the development of a business plan for a virtual startup can provide invaluable insights. This mirrors a real-world scenario where entrepreneurs are increasingly launching digital businesses. I remember a student who, inspired by this project, went on to establish a successful online retail business.

Drawing on my teaching experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, I propose a comprehensive plan for an online Academic English course that maximizes integrated learning practices and addresses key aspects of language development. Topics such as engineering, sustainability, philosophy of science, place-based innovation ecosystems, and environmental changes in the Anthropocene will be explored. Expanding on this, the course will guide students in researching potential markets for these eco-friendly products in Asia and Africa. This multi-step process, culminating in the creation of an email promoting the product and outlining a business transaction, fosters not only language proficiency but also practical business communication skills.

Clear guidelines are the backbone of effective project-based learning. However, they must also allow for flexibility to accommodate diverse student perspectives and approaches. In my experience, providing a structured yet adaptable framework helps students to better understand their objectives while encouraging creativity. For instance, in an online marketing course, students were given the freedom to choose their target market and marketing channels, leading to a wide range of innovative and personalized marketing campaigns.

Online environments can challenge traditional collaboration, but they also offer unique opportunities. Encouraging students to use digital collaboration tools effectively can enhance their learning experience. In a project where students from different countries collaborated on a global market analysis, the use of tools like Zoom and Slack not only facilitated smooth communication but also brought in diverse international perspectives, enriching the learning experience for everyone involved.

Effective project-based learning in online education needs a strong support system. This includes providing resources such as academic articles, video tutorials, and expert webinars. Additionally, scaffolding by breaking down projects into smaller, manageable parts helps students progress. In an environmental science course, students were given access to a virtual lab, allowing them to conduct experiments and analyze data in a simulated environment, greatly enhancing their understanding of complex concepts.

Assessment in project-based learning should encompass both the process and the final product. This dual focus helps in recognizing the effort, learning, and collaboration that go into the project. I recall a digital design course where students were assessed on their design process documented through weekly logs, in addition to the final design project. This approach provided a comprehensive view of their learning journey.

Finally, it’s crucial to consider the individual needs of students in an online setting. Personalized feedback, regular check-ins, and adaptability to different learning styles can make a significant difference. For instance, in a recent online course, regular virtual office hours and personalized feedback sessions helped students feel more connected and supported, leading to higher engagement and better project outcomes. In conclusion, project-based learning in online higher education requires a careful blend of relevance, flexibility, collaboration, support, and comprehensive assessment. By incorporating these elements, educators can create an enriching and effective learning environment that prepares students for real-world challenges.