Project and Problem-Based Learning (PBL)
PBL at VT
CETL supports faculty with programs and resources for both project-based learning and problem-based learning.
Project-Based learning is an educational approach that enables students to learn by engaging in authentic, relevant projects that necessitate the use of critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication abilities.
Problem-Based Learning is a teaching method in which complex real-world problems are used as the vehicle to promote student learning of concepts and principle. While historically based in clinical preparation and professional schools including medicine and business, problem-based learning has since been infused in many other fields of study with positive learning outcomes for students at all levels.
Outcomes of PBL
While both forms of PBL engage student in real-world problem solving, project-based requires the completion of a project while problem-based focuses on problem identification and proposes a solution. Both forms of PBL are significant educational strategies aiding in the development of students’ abilities and skills required for success in the classroom as well as future careers. Using a PBL approach has been connected to the following student goals and outcomes:
- Develop critical thinking abilities through analyzing data, using their imaginations, and working through difficult problems.
- Improve collaboration and communication through teamwork.
- Foster innovative and creative thinking.
- Increase student motivation and engagement by promoting relevance and connection of theory, concepts, and application.
PBL Institutes
NEW this year, CETL is offering two hybrid PBL Institutes:
Project-based AND Problem-based
Both two-day institutes will host faculty participants in person at Gilbert Street with lunch included. Coaching support will be two-fold, with our partner institutions Worcester Polytechnic Institute (Project-Based) and University of Delaware (Problem-Based) attending virtually and staff from the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) and the Academy for Experiential Learning (AEL) supporting in person.
Both institutes will take place on Thursday, October 17 and Thursday, October 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. PDN credit will be applied after completion of both days. Space is limited for these institutes with a cap of 20 participants from the Project-Based Institute and 10 participants for the Problem-Based Institute.
PBL Institute I: Project-Based Learning Institute
In partnership with WPI’s Center for Project Based Learning, the Project-Based learning institute will offer presentations, workshops, and pedagogical coaching with WPI and Virginia Tech faculty mentors with extensive experience and expertise designing courses and teaching with projects.
PBL Institute I: Agenda
Thursday, October 17
- 8:30 Welcome and Introduction to PBL
- 9:15 Workshop I: PBL Frameworks, Models, Benefits
- 10:30 Workshop II: How to fit projects in courses
- 12:00 Lunch (Provided)
- 1:00 Workshop III: Scaffolding, supporting and sustaining PBL
- 2:00 Group Discussion: Questions, planning
Thursday, October 24
- 8:30 Group Discussion: Questions, Review planning document
- 8:45 Workshop IV: Assessment and Feedback in PBL
- 10:00 Workshop: PBL as Integrative Learning – Interdisciplinary and Gen Ed possibilities
- 11:00 Independent Work: Prep short description of project plan
- 11:30 Presentation: Share out of project plans
- 12:00 Lunch (Provided)
- 1:00 Presentation: Share out of project plans, continued
- 2:00 Q&A and the Future of PBL @ VT
PBL Institute II: Problem-Based Learning Institute
In partnership with University of Delaware’s Institute for Transforming University Education, Virginia Tech is hosting its second PBL institute focused on problem-based learning. Join University of Delaware and Virginia Tech experts in problem-based learning pedagogy to design problems to be drivers of learning in your course. Faculty will participate in guided workshops and coaching.
PBL Institute II: Agenda
Thursday, October 17
- 8:30 Welcome and Introduction to PBL
- 9:15 Welcome and Introductions with University of Delaware
- 9:30 Creating Cohorts: Strategies for Forming Groups
- 10:00 Experience it Yourself: A model PBL Problem
- 10:40 Reflection and Questions
- 11:10 What is Problem-Based Learning Getting Started
- 12:00 Lunch (Provided)
- 1:00 Scouting Scenarios: Survey of Problem Types
- 1:45 Constructing a Well-Formed Problem + Day 1 Assignment
- 2:15 Q&A
Friday, October 24
- 8:30 Addressing Questions from Day 1
- 9:00 How PBL Aligns with How People Learn
- 10:00 Tweaks and Turns: Developing and Revising Problems
- 10:30 Showcase Setup: Preparing for the Gallery Walk
- 10:50 Exhibition Expedition: Sharing Problem Drafts in a Gallery Walk
- 11:30 The Big Picture: Course Design with PBL
- 12:00 Lunch (Provided)
- 1:00 Assessment in PBL Context
- 1:20 Closing and Q&A with University of Delaware
- 2:00 Q&A and the Future of PBL @ VT
Project-Based Learning Award
The Project-Based Learning Award is given to one individual implementing project-based learning at the course level OR a faculty team implementing across courses. This award is given every three years. Learn more about the award and nomination process.
Resources Supporting Project-Based Learning
There are various resources across campus to support faculty and student engagement in project-based learning. Please click on the buttons below to learn more about these resources.