Core Practices for Project-Based Learning: A Guide for Teachers and Leaders

Core Practices for Project-Based Learning provides a framework and essential set of strategies for successfully implementing project-based learning (PBL) in the classroom, focusing on teaching practice and the complex instructional demands of the student-centered approach. It defines the four primary teaching goals of PBL and equips educators with ten key practices to facilitate deep learning, including methods to elicit higher-order thinking, engage students in disciplinary and interdisciplinary practice, and mentor student decision-making.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2021
Publisher: Harvard Educational Publishing Group

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a powerful teaching approach that emphasizes student-centered learning and real-world problem-solving. To effectively implement PBL in the classroom, educators need a framework and a set of essential strategies. Core Practices for Project-Based Learning provides just that, offering a comprehensive framework and a set of strategies for successfully implementing PBL.

The book is centered on teaching practice and goes beyond project planning to focus on the complex instructional demands of the student-centered PBL approach. The authors, Pam Grossman and her colleagues, draw on their extensive research with teachers, educational leaders, and curriculum designers to identify the instructional goals, practices, and mindsets that enable educators to effectively facilitate deep learning in PBL environments.

The authors first define the four primary teaching goals of the PBL model: supporting subject-area learning, engaging students in authentic work, encouraging student collaboration and agency, and building an iterative culture where students are always prototyping, reflecting, and trying again. These goals are essential for developing students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.

To achieve these goals, the authors equip educators with ten key practices that serve these goals. These practices include methods to elicit higher-order thinking, engage students in disciplinary and interdisciplinary practice, and mentor student decision-making. The authors provide clear guidance on how to apply these practices in the classroom, from a clear starting place through a series of concrete, manageable steps that apply whether educators are initiating PBL or working to improve the quality of existing PBL implementation.

Extended case studies illustrate the use of the core practices in real-world situations, providing practical examples of how PBL can be implemented in various subject areas and grade levels. These case studies showcase the success of PBL in engaging students, promoting deeper learning, and preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Core Practices for Project-Based Learning is an invaluable resource for educators who want to realize their instructional vision and create meaningful student experiences. The book provides a comprehensive framework and a set of practical strategies that can help educators develop their PBL skills and create engaging, effective learning environments for their students. Whether educators are new to PBL or looking to improve their existing practice, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in promoting student-centered learning and preparing students for success in the 21st century.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 154 x 228 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781682536421