Project Based Learning (PBL)

Project Based Learning (PBL) is contextual, creative, and shared.

At Evergreen School District, a number of our elementary and middle schools are members of the New Tech Network of schools. As part of this network, students collaborate on meaningful projects that require critical thinking, creativity, and communication in order for them to answer challenging questions or solve complex problems. By making learning relevant to them in this way, students see a purpose for mastering state-required skills and content concepts.

Students aren’t just assessed on their understanding of academic content, but on their ability to successfully apply that content when solving authentic problems. Through this process, project based learning gives students the opportunity to develop the real life skills required for success in today’s world.

New Tech Network schools also use problem-based learning (PrBL). PrBL is a form of inquiry-based instruction used primarily in mathematics that places the students in several smaller problem scenarios rather than a single, large project scenario. Supported by National Council of Teachers of Mathmatics and the National Science Foundation, much of what makes PBL so successful is present in a PrBL environment, including Entry Events, the Need-to-Know (NTK) process, and student-centered scaffolding.