Problem-based learning is a teaching method in which students actively build knowledge and skills by working both independently and in groups to solve an authentic, open-ended problem.

Here’s a quick overview:

• The approach is teacher-guided, but learner-driven
• Students learn best from a “felt need”–by figuring out what they need to solve a problem and its real-world relevance
• Students manage projects by finding their own learning resources, setting goals and evaluating their own progress with student-friendly rubrics
• Problem-based learning maximizes active learning time so that kids learn more, both on their own and by collaborating with peers
• The student-driven learning environment allows flexibility for teachers to differentiate instruction through small group mini-lessons and individual instruction that support students’ diverse needs and learning styles

Resources

• Presentation: Parent Workshop on Project-Based Learning (11/29/16)
• SOCSD Community Guide to Problem-Based Learning
• Edutopia: Project-Based Learning Resources for Parents
• Stanford University Newsletter on Teaching: Problem-Based Learning