Project Based Learning: How it fosters 21st century skills in K-12 students
Publishing Solutions Group
Full-service content development for Pre-K-16 educational and professional learning services. Certified WBE.
By Lucy Rime
Spring 2024 Intern
Introduction
As education evolves in the 21st century, the methods and learning strategies taught to students must be adapted and transformed to better complement their experiences. According to the National Education Policy of 2009, teachers should adapt their teaching methods according to the needs of the students and situation.[1] Every child receiving their education today faces different struggles and carries different skills that will someday affect how they navigate the real world. If schools adopt approaches such as Project Based Learning and put proper time into understanding and integrating it effectively, K-12 students can feel supported and better prepared for their futures and life outside of the classroom.[2]?
So, what is Project Based Learning (PBL)?
According to Edutopia, Project Based Learning is, “a dynamic classroom approach in which students actively explore real-world problems and challenges and acquire transferable knowledge.”[3] Project Based Learning also focuses on supporting the “4Cs”, which are communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.[1] To achieve this, teachers must help guide students through a process that consists of identifying a complex question, conducting research, and collaboratively developing a solution or presentation.[3] The approach was first introduced back in 2005 when the state of West Virginia began an effort to reinvent public education. Teachers came together from around the state and dedicated their time over the summer to learn how to successfully teach Project Based Learning, which fused academic content with 21st-century skills. The Buck Institute for Education did its part by providing professional insight on how to design, manage, and assemble PBL.[4] Overall, PBL tries to wean students off learning through memorization and instead teach them how to apply their knowledge in more practical contexts.
How does it work?
Perhaps the number one thing that PBL promotes is critical thinking, a huge 21st-century skill. According to Microsoft Partners in Learning and the Pearson Foundation, developing 21st-century skills leads to a higher work quality later in life. But how does Project Based Learning help with the acquisition of 21st-century skills? Well, according to research done by scholar Chris Shirar, there are four phases to conducting a project within a classroom. These four phases include: breaking projects into manageable parts, creating visual organizational aids, modeling and teaching executive function skills, and incorporating reflection and self-assessment.[2] Shirar claims that “this strategy focuses on analysis, evaluation, and creation to empower critical and higher order thinking through project-based learning.” Overall, teachers and educators play a large role in making sure that Project Based Learning is conducted effectively. If they dedicate the time and effort, teachers can help bridge gaps in learning for all students and both develop and strengthen their executive function skills.?
Depending on where PBL is looking to be incorporated, there are different strategies for setting it up. For example, educators and small teams can start learning about PBL through online courses and workshops. On a larger scale, schools and districts can conduct in-person and online workshops for teachers and staff. Beyond that, regional and state partners can set up multi-year programs for PBL support and implementation. The ?PBLWorks website provides a comprehensive list of workshops and services depending on the size and location of where the approach is being implemented. This website offers a great opportunity for people to get involved in any capacity.?
Effects of PBL
Project Based Learning can improve student capabilities in a variety of ways. When it comes to equity and closing the achievement gap, PBL can serve as a more equitable approach to learning. According to one study, students engaged in project based learning outperformed their peers across socioeconomic status and reading level. As TinkerCast points out, PBL offers students from underrepresented communities the chance to see the importance of education, providing them with motivation and purpose. Furthermore, according to Edutopia, students involved in PBL can give feedback to peers or assess other students' work, answer questions in front of an audience, generate their own ideas on how to confront a problem, and compare information from different sources before completing an assignment.[4] All in all, since PBL allows students to choose projects that interest them and spark their curiosity, PBL helps students stay motivated to learn and keeps the work meaningful to each individual, all while harnessing their abilities and academic achievement.[3]?
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Conclusion
Project Based Learning cannot be thrown into the classroom right away. It requires time, training, and resources for both students and teachers.[1] However, where and when it is incorporated effectively, the effect on students is worthwhile and impactful. Project Based Learning allows students to engage in deep, long-lasting learning that teaches them skills that will not only help their love of learning but will also give them a personal connection to their academic experience. 21st-century education needs its students to be exposed to 21st-century concepts, and Project Based Learning helps accomplish just that, improving education for K-12 students who get involved.?
Publishing Solutions Group
Publishing Solutions Group is committed to helping students achieve academic success and incorporate positive life skills to harness their capabilities. By understanding learning approaches such as Project Based Learning, PSG can help to leverage its impact when creating associated content through their clients to continue harnessing positive outcomes on students throughout K-12 educational systems.?
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