Have you heard of project-based learning (PBL), are drawn to it, and believe it could be a game-changer but hesitate to give it a try?

Maybe it sounds amazing in theory, students leading their own learning, working on real-world projects, and developing essential life skills.

But then you start wondering where to even start, how to fit it into your already jam-packed schedule, or if it will create chaos instead of solving the problems you want to address.

I really get it. When I first started implementing PBL, I had all the same questions and then some.

But there is some good news. You don’t have to overhaul your entire teaching approach overnight.

Getting started with PBL doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can take small, intentional steps that build your confidence and ease your students into this different way of learning. Let me walk you through it!c

What is Project-Based Learning (and How Is It Different from Just a Project)?

First, let’s clear up a common misconception: PBL is not the same as a traditional project.

A typical project is often a surface-level assignment. Students gather information, piece it together, and present it to the class. There’s little inquiry, problem-solving, or real-world connection.

For example, after a week of reading about habitats, students might create a trifold board about an animal, present it to the class, and then toss it in the trash. The learning happens first, and the project is a final product rather than an active part of the learning process.

Project-based learning flips that model. Instead of just being a final product, the PBL is the learning experience.

Students explore real-world questions, problems, or challenges through sustained inquiry, collaboration, and critical thinking. The process is just as important as the outcome.

For example, instead of simply researching endangered species and making a poster, students might partner with a local wildlife organization to develop conservation awareness campaigns that actually reach the public. PBL is purposeful, student-driven, and deeply engaging because it connects learning to the real world in a meaningful way.

Simple Steps to Get Started Without the Stress

Step 1: Start With One Project

You don’t have to switch to a fully project-based classroom right away. In fact, I don’t recommend it!

Instead, start with one project. Choose something small, manageable, and relevant to what you’re already teaching.

A great way to ease in is by adapting an existing lesson into a PBL. For example, instead of having students write a research paper on an environmental issue, have them create a public awareness campaign. It’s the same content but with more engagement.

Step 2: Let Students Make Some Choices

One of the biggest differences between traditional learning and PBL is student ownership. But again, you don’t have to go all in on day one. Start by giving students small choices, like:

• Choosing their PBL topic within a broader theme (e.g., theme: habitats, topic: kelp forest)
• Selecting how they want to demonstrate their learning (workshop, art piece, website, magazine, etc.)
• Deciding whether they work individually or in a group

Choice sparks engagement, and engagement reduces behavior issues (win-win!).

Step 3: Connect to the Real World

The magic of PBL happens when students see the relevance of what they’re learning. Ask yourself: How does this topic exist beyond the walls of my classroom? Then, brainstorm ways to bring that connection to life. Some easy ways to add real-world relevance include:

• Inviting a guest speaker (local professionals, community members, entrepreneurs, etc.)
• Taking students on a virtual or in-person field experience
• Collaborating with local businesses, organizations, policy makers, residents, and other community professionals
• Having students create a product or solution that serves a real audience

Even a small real-world connection makes a huge difference in student investment.

Step 4: Make Reflection a Habit

Reflection is a game-changer in PBL. It helps students recognize their growth, identify challenges, and improve their work. Build in structured reflection throughout the project with questions like:

• What’s going well so far? What’s challenging?
• What’s one thing you learned today that surprised you?
• How could you improve your project moving forward?

When students reflect regularly, they become more self-directed learners, which means less micromanaging for you!

Step 5: Don’t Strive for Perfection

If you’re waiting to have all the answers before you start PBL, you’ll never start. The reality is that your first project will be messy. Your students will struggle. You will struggle. But that’s okay! Learning through trial and error is part of the process (for both you and your students).

Start small. Keep it simple. Celebrate the wins, and most importantly, give yourself grace as you navigate this new approach to teaching.

Making It Work in Your Classroom (and Beyond!)

If you’re into the idea of project-based learning but still feel unsure about taking the leap, you’re not alone. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

PBL not only boosts academic engagement but also builds essential interpersonal skills like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving, all skills students need to thrive in the real world.

I’ll be diving deeper into this at the Wonder Years Summit, where I’ll be speaking about how real-world projects help students develop strong interpersonal skills while making learning more meaningful.

If you want actionable strategies for bringing PBL into your classroom while strengthening students’ social-emotional skills, you won’t want to miss it!

In the meantime, check out my website, Experiential Learning Depot, for blog posts, resources, and my free PBL mini-course that will help you get started without the overwhelm.

PBL doesn’t have to be complicated, it just has to be purposeful. Let’s make learning meaningful together!