5 Benefits of Project-Based Learning

There was a time when students were bombarded with theoretical knowledge and then given assignments to put that knowledge into use. This traditional way of working usually involved rote learning and was purely led by the teacher's instructions.

Given the rate at which the world is evolving, one does wonder if traditional learning techniques are able to adequately prepare students for the real world. Well, the answer is no.

Enter - project-based learning. If you are asking if it is the same as doing projects, it's not. Centered around "learning by doing", project-based learning places students in the forefront by engaging them in solving real-world problems, thereby enhancing their knowledge and life skills. This is also an effective way to make your e-learning courses more interactive and interesting.

Here are 5 key benefits of this modern way of learning -

Acquire Deeper Knowledge

In the traditional scheme of things, students are more focused on learning concepts for the sake of assignments and exams after which that 'knowledge' is conveniently forgotten. However, this is not the case with project-based learning wherein they are more engaged and involved in the learning process.

As they are required to delve deeper and conduct immersive research while solving real-world problems, they tend to understand concepts in their entirety and are able to implement them better when they have to. After all, isn't that what 'gaining knowledge' is all about?

Improves Problem-Solving Abilities

What good is your education if you are not able to relate it to real-life situations, right?

Studying concepts in one thing but experiencing them first-hand and learning from them is another. The latter is certainly more useful as it adds immense value to the learning process and contributes to the holistic understanding.

When students are met with real-world problems, they are compelled to analyze the situation, conduct research and come up with the best solution. This improves their problem-solving abilities which is an essential skill to have in today's world.

Builds Critical Thinking

The goal of education is to give rise to independent thinkers who can assess situations, make their judgements and think critically in the process. This is what project-based learning aims to achieve by putting them in situations wherein they are expected to experience issues first-hand and reflect on them.

It pushes students to ask questions, widen their thinking avenues, explore possibilities and make wise decisions. Critical thinkers are generally more prepared for their future and are better performers in their respective work spheres.

Develops Interpersonal Skills

In the case of project-based learning, information is not merely transmitted from the teacher to students. In fact, students are required to work in groups, and they learn by collaborating with each other. They share their knowledge, discuss ideas, listen to each other, offer feedback and come to a consensus. This helps in developing their interpersonal and communication skills while boosting confidence.

Creates Ownership

It's common knowledge that when one is given ownership of something, they tend to be more intrinsically motivated, engaged and empowered. Project-based learning has the same impact on students because it allows students to take responsibility of their education. They no longer function in a one-dimensional learning environment. Instead, they are exposed to different aspects which requires them to get their hands dirty and learn better.

Author Bio:

Adela Belin is a private educator and blogger at Writers Per Hour. She shares her teaching experience with colleagues, students, and writers. Feel free to contact Adela on LinkedIn.