How do you implement PBL as a district? I’m hijacking another PBL Showcase episode to talk about this important question. School leaders need to build their PBL knowledge through books,  resources, and even visiting a school that has implemented PBL. I also talk about the steps that you can use to implement PBL such as design days, PBL core team, being an advocate, and observing.

Our “need to know” is a continuation of last week’s episode about deep research on Project Based Learning by Lucas Research. This research backs up another huge impact of PBL. It states that adding rigorous PBL to advanced placement courses improves student achievement on AP exams. There’s a perception that PBL doesn’t help with things like high stakes exams. This research dispels that myth. 

Episode Highlights: 

[03:38] The Lucas Research Study talks about Project Based Learning being authentic, having an inquiry-based approach, and exploring real-world problems.

[03:52] This research backs up where we have the biggest impact. Adding rigorous PBL to advanced placement courses, improves student achievement on AP exams. PBL also improves science skills and social and emotional learning.

[04:52] Students thrive with hands-on inquiry-based learning and have better test scores.

[11:03] As a school leader, build your PBL knowledge with books and resources or visit a school that's already implemented PBL.

[12:15] Create design days to spell out what your project will look like. What do you want your graduates to know?

[13:37] What would your three year plan look like?

[13:56] Create a PBL core team to find out if PBL will work in your district or school.

[15:01] Be a PBL advocate for your facilitators. Look at your evaluation form and make PBL a positive. 

[16:45] Observe PBL in action. See what's happening and make sure it aligns with your vision.

[17:30] How can you find community partners or get grants for your projects? Make connections and support the project as it moves forward. 

[17:52] Build PBL awareness. Do parents and community partners know about Project Based Learning? 

Resources & Links Related to this Episode