When you arrange training for upskilling a workforce you want to give them the chance to tackle real-world challenges, this is exactly what project-based learning does, and the experts at Parallel Project Training believe there are advantages to both trainer and learners of taking this approach. Here, we ask them to explain why.
What is project-based learning?
Sometimes referred to as PBL, project-based learning is the idea of learning whilst doing. It allows learners the chance to develop a deeper understanding of a topic through the concept of problem-solving, using real-world challenges and examples.
There is one big difference between PBL and other forms of projects, and this is that it is used to train a whole unit as opposed to just one part of it. PBL is a form of constructivist learning theory that is put into practice, and, unlike other forms of training where the trainer lectures on the topic, it is up to the trainees to take on the role of directing their own learning.
Project-based learning ideas to consider in your training
It is important to keep the seven steps of a successful project in mind:
1. Pose a problem that is challenging – the instructor role is essential here, and how you pose a problem matters in order to encourage enquiry.
2. Implement a sustained enquiry – give your project team the chance to look for solutions to the problem, this might include doing some research online or even looking at case studies. They could also talk to co-workers.
3. Encourage authenticity – they should consider the question in terms of real world problems, ie how might it impact their workplace on a daily basis.
4. Learner voice and choices – your project team should be given as much freedom as possible. When they have more guidelines, they have less to think about. Let them define the process, the content and then the final product where possible.
5. Reflection – it is important to take the opportunity to reflect on anything that has come up during the project. This might include any obstacles and any strategies that may be needed in order to overcome them. These are things that can either be discussed face-to-face or through any other means that may seem appropriate.
6. Critique and revision – in PBL, feedback is critical. It is important for the project manager to guide their team and offer any thoughts on the direction that things may need to take. It is important to consider what can be learnt from the project. Any feedback should be followed by a period of time given over to revision and during this time amendments and possible improvements should also be made based on any feedback.
7. Present the findings – the final step involves each project team being given the opportunity to discuss their findings. Often, a project team may come up with a solution to a real problem that is workable and may be worthy of serious consideration.
The challenges of PBL
PBL can be time consuming, and it may be that learners need a little more time to be guided through the process than you might need if you were presenting materials in a more traditional manner.
It is a type of learning that is not suited to everyone so it is important to make sure that everyone has their say, in some instances you may find that you need to blend PBL with other types of learning to provide a fuller learning experience.
