Project Base Learning

Project Base Learning is an excellent approach to foster learning in early childhood. Not only does it foster learning but it also fosters excitement for learning. This approach enables students to explore real problems. It is active, engaging and fosters critical thinking skills through problem solving and play. PBL encourages children to participate in active inquiry and solve complex questions.

Imagine designing and building model roller coasters for Great Escape or designing a new house for the three little pigs so the wolf can’t blow their houses down.

As a teacher I always tried to integrate subject areas based on a theme. However, recently I began to truly understand project base learning. Now I think about purposely developing projects that will foster learning and excitement. More importantly, I think about stating a problem that the children need to solve. It is amazing to watch them discuss and solve problems related to the project.

I had the opportunity to create and implement the roller coaster project. I did a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) project at my previous elementary school. I worked with a 4^th grade class but not all the students are on a fourth grade level. There are several that are on 1^st grade and 2^nd grade level. This was the challenge:  

You are an engineer and you have been asked to design a new roller coaster that is both safe and innovative. You will think critically about motion by analyzing and questioning the concept of motion. You will do this by experimenting with force, acceleration, velocity and position activities.