Project-Based Learning in Practice

Course Objectives

• To provide participants with a solid understanding of the principles and foundations of Project-Based Learning (PBL).
• To equip educators with the skills to plan, develop and implement educational projects aligned with learning objectives.
• To promote the use of strategies that foster student motivation, autonomy, collaboration and critical thinking.
• To present assessment methods suitable for project-based learning, including both formative and summative approaches.
• To explore tools and resources that support the effective integration of PBL in different educational contexts and levels.

Schedule

Module 1 – Introduction to Project-Based Learning

• What is PBL? Principles, benefits and key components.
• Differences between PBL and traditional teaching methods.
• Examples of successful PBL practices in different educational contexts.
• The role of the teacher as a facilitator of learning.

Module 2 – Designing Effective Projects

• Steps to plan a PBL unit: from idea to implementation.
• Defining learning goals and essential questions.
• Aligning projects with curriculum requirements and competences.
• Project timelines, milestones and deliverables.

Module 3 – Implementation Strategies

• Creating a collaborative and student-centred learning environment.
• Scaffolding techniques to guide students throughout the project.
• Classroom management in PBL contexts.
• Integrating cross-curricular and real-world connections.

Module 4 – Assessment in PBL

• Types of assessment: formative, summative and peer/self-assessment.
• Designing rubrics and criteria for project evaluation.
• Providing constructive feedback and promoting reflection.
• Documenting and showcasing student learning outcomes.

Module 5 – Digital Tools and Resources for PBL

• Tools for project planning and management (e.g., Trello, Padlet, Miro).
• Tools for collaboration and communication (e.g., Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams).
• Digital platforms for creating and presenting student work.
• Strategies for blended and online PBL environments.

Module 6 – PBL in Different Contexts and Subjects

• Adapting PBL to different educational levels and student profiles.
• Interdisciplinary projects and real-world applications.
• Strategies for inclusive and differentiated instruction in PBL.
• Overcoming common challenges in implementing PBL.

Module 7 – Practical Workshop: Designing Your Own PBL Project

• Collaborative group work to design a PBL unit.
• Defining goals, activities, assessment methods and tools.
• Peer feedback and improvement of project plans.
• Presentation and discussion of designed projects.

Module 8 – Reflection and Next Steps

• Identifying opportunities for implementing PBL in participants’ own schools.
• Sharing experiences and building a network of PBL practitioners.
• Action plan for integrating PBL into future teaching practice.
• Final reflections and course wrap-up.