Project Based Learning

General Description

Project Based Learning, or PBL is a learning experience where the student gains deeper knowledge and broader skills by investigating a topic of their choice. Students actively explore real-world problems and respond to complex questions and challenges. This will often require the student to draw upon previous coursework and apply it in a very practical way to their project. PBL's will usually require a community partner.

Getting Started

Once you've filled out the ELO Request Form and have been approved you will need to do the following:

  1. This experience will require that you have a Lead Teacher who you will meet with regularly to ensure you are meeting goals your expectations. Your Lead Teacher will provide guidance and expertise in the subject area of your choosing.

  2. Meet with your Lead Teacher to fill out your Project Based Learning Plan. This form gives the specific details of your learning plan including learning goals and an outline of the activities and product.

  3. Find a Community Partner to assist you with this project and have them fill out and return the Community Partner Agreement Form and have them signed by your parent.

  4. If your PBL includes activities that impacts attendance of your other classes, you are required to fill out an Off Campus Permission Form.

Required Components

Research
During your PBL research should guide your learning experience.
This can include but not limited to:

  • Online research related to the subject you are focusing on.

  • Print or online resources recommended by your teacher(s)

  • Observations of community partners

  • Feedback from your ELO Partners


You will need to complete and document research as part of this project. See the Research Guide for more information.

Product
A PBL require that you develop a tangible product that demonstrate the application of your knowledge and skills on the subject.
You will need to meet with your Lead Teacher to discuss and plan your final product. See the Product Guide for more information, as well as the Product Rubric for evaluation criteria.

Presentation
Every PBL will require a presentation. The presentation should communicate each component of your PBL as well as how the learning experience has helped your future life and career goals. See the Presentation Guide for more information, as well as the Presentation Rubric for evaluation criteria.

ASSESSMENT
Throughout your PBL experience, you will be assessed on the progress you are making toward the learning goals of the project. Your final assessment grade is based on the evaluation criteria set in the original plan as well as your performance with:

  • Research

  • Product

  • Presentation

The Final Assessment form will used used by the evaluation panel to document all evaluations and provide a grade and level to be added to your transcript. The evaluation panel will include the Lead Teacher, Community Partner, and any other necessary individuals who are knowledgeable on the subject matter.