Embarking on a Journey of Educational Innovation: Unraveling the Wonders of Project Based Learning

How can we reimagine projects to spark joy and motivation in students while ensuring utmost efficiency for our dedicated teachers? Let's embark on a transformative journey to find the perfect balance!

With this question in mind, the new edition of the course “Introducing Project Based Learning in the Classroom​” took place in Tenerife from 16/07/2023 to 22/07/2023. The participants came from all across Europe, Eva from Gymnázium Mnichovo Hradiště in Czech Republic; Paula and Katya from Immaculate Conception School in Malta, Bernadett from Vajda Péter Evangélikus Gimnázium in Hungary, András from Szegedi Deák Ferenc Gimnázium in Hungary; Katarzyna from University of Warsaw in Poland; Péter from Ceglédi Kossuth Lajos Gimnázium in Hungary; Aliz from Gyermekek Háza Alternatív Általános Iskola és Gimnázium in Hungary.

As the course commenced, participants took a fascinating dive into the world of Project Based Learning (PBL), uncovering its five key elements through captivating case study videos. Soon, they realized that PBL isn't your average project; it's a distinct teaching approach with its own rules and methods, a doorway to a realm of immersive learning.

From that point forward, they embarked on a thrilling adventure, breaking down the preparation of a PBL project into five exciting phases:

1. Preparing the Stage for PBL: Through introspection and open discussions, our teachers grasped the significance of equipping their students with essential skills and attitudes like curiosity, critical thinking, inquiry, and the spirit of collaboration, all vital for embracing PBL's journey.

2. Starting from the Learning Outcomes and embracing "Backward Designing": PBL's heart lies in its integration with the curriculum, not as an afterthought but as an essential part of the learning experience: PBL is not the dessert at the end your meal, PBL is the main course!

3. Weaving the Driving Question and Project Details: The enigmatic "Driving Question" emerged as a catalyst for students' lea​rning, urging them to explore solutions to challenges and delve into the key concepts of various disciplines.

4. Descovering the difference between formative and summative assessments. Participants realized that especially during PBL, formative assessment is crucial and there are so many tools they can use.

5. Embracing the Power of ICT Tools: In the PBL projects, new technologies played a big role. Our participants joyfully practiced essential ICT tools that seamlessly supported the implementation of PBL in the classroom.

The true magic of learning unfolded as they took flight into crafting their very own PBL projects throughout the week. Each day, they collaborated passionately, designing projects tailored to their students' age and needs. This creative process not only dispelled doubts but also ignited lively brainstorming sessions with colleagues from diverse countries. The final outcome was nothing short of a triumphant sense of achievement, coupled with a heartfelt vow to breathe life into their projects back in their own classrooms.

Armed with innovation and inspiration, they set forth, transforming education through the enchanting realms of Project Based Learning in the beautiful location of Tenerife! 

Discover more about this course here.