What Is Project-Based Learning?

by Terry Heick

In one sentence, project-based learning is the process of learning through projects.

The Definition Of Project-Based Learning

To be a bit more specific, project-based learning is the process of learning through the design, development, and completion of projects.

It can be useful to think of it in terms of what it’s not–The Difference Between Projects And Project-Based Learning, for example. Project-Based Learning (PBL) is not completing projects or it’d be called ‘Learning-Based Projects’–or just ‘projects.’ In quality PBL, the goal is learning and the projects help facilitate that learning. That is, projects act as a vehicle

PBL depends on background knowledge, learner choice, technology tools, support from others, and dozens of other factors that result in a process of learning that produces very different results and ‘projects’

In 3 Types Of Project-Based Learning, we gave a definition for project-based learning that we’re using as a basis to push the idea a bit further.

Characteristics Of Project-Based Learning

Requires critical thinking (e.g., design, evaluation, analysis, judgment, prioritizing, etc.). This is in contrast to other forms of learning that hope to ‘promote’ critical thinking but can be accomplished without it.
Driven by inquiry
Combines knowledge and competencies/skills
Illuminates learning as iterative and recursive (as opposed to learn–>study–>assess–>move on)
Flexible
Authentic
Student-Centered
Unifies other disparate skills
Easy to align with standards

Teaching Through Project-Based Learning

From a teacher’s perspective, Project-Based Learning is a method of structuring curriculum around projects to promote learning of prioritized academic content. These projects highlight the process of learning itself by offering authentic, inquiry-based activities for learners to access content, share ideas, and revisit their own thinking.

At the risk of becoming redundant, return again to the difference between projects and project-based learning–primarily that Project-Based Learning is about the process, and projects are about the product that comes at the end.

Project-Based Learning often requires students not simply to collect resources, organize work, and manage long-term activities, but also to collaborate, design, revise, and share their ideas and experiences with authentic audiences and supportive peer groups in the classroom, or within physical and digital communities the student is a member of and contributes to.

What Is Project-Based Learning? A Definition For Teachers