Learning by doing: sage-on-a-stage method of teaching is not the only way to learn

By Preethi Vickram

The last couple of years have forced a lot of stakeholders in the education industry to review their methods of teaching. Not being able to conduct offline classes has exposed the frailties of the current sage-on-a-stage method of teaching. It wasn’t easy at all for schools following traditional methods of learning and teaching to capture children’s attention throughout the day.

T h e p a n d e m i c h a s brought to front some harsh realities of traditional learning systems that are fighting a battle to stay relevant today. This is where proje c t - b a s e d learning has s h o n e through a s t h e a n s w e r. Projectbased learn- ing has been picking up globally and it’s about time India — the emerging hub of education and innovation — moves to this system as well.

What is project-based learning?
Project-based learning is a teaching method that engages students in projects that are meaningful, enjoyable, and relevant. As adults, we can certainly attest to the fact that the best learning and retention happens when we have actively engaged with a task. Project-based learning introduces students to the concept of ‘learning by doing’.

Students are given project-based assignments that are tailored to their needs and skill sets. It is an active form of learning. Multiple studies have shown globally that rote learning is no longer sufficient to prepare students. Information is available at the tip of everyone’s fingers these days. Memorisation of information is redundant. Project-based learning, on the other hand, equips students with skills to solve issues in the real world.

What are children taught in project-based learning?
Project-based learning schools take learning theory a step further by teaching its applications. Students spend time engaging in applied, investigative learning. Project-based learning takes learning beyond prescribed textbooks. It seeds a bond with the subject matter for most students.

At the core of projectbased learning is STEAM education. STEAM education is proven to be more holistic in covering subject matter than traditional teaching methodologies. When STEAM is taught by doing, students retain the information for longer. Students coming out of project-based learning systems will possess the fundamental skill sets needed to thrive in today’s highly technologically advanced society.

How can schools implement project-based learning?
Project-based lear ning needs experienced educationists at the helm to be properly implemented. It demands a total transformation of the traditional teaching apparatus and classrooms. It is an instructional strategy that helps students to learn by doing. Teachers give their students the chance to solve a problem, create something, or work with their creativity and develop skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving.

The advantage of using project-based learning in the classroom is that it can be tailored to different levels of learning and different subjects. It is also more engaging than traditional teaching methods because it requires active involvement from the student. A research study found that not only were project-based learning participants more likely to say they enjoyed school, but also that they had improved attitudes toward math and science compared to those who did not participate in project-based learning activities.

The project-based learning process is a five-step plan that allows instructors to create projects with real-world applications. The steps are:

Identifying and defining the problem

Exploring issues around it and possible solutions

Presenting the possible plans and choosing the best plan

Implementing the chosen plan

Evaluating and assessing the performance of the plan and planning improvements

There are many useful tools for teachers to use when implementing this model including presentations and graphics on the topic.

(The author is Founder, Tapas Progressive Educational Institution.)

THE TOP FIVE BENEFITS OF PROJECT-BASED LEARNING
Deeper engagement with the learning matter
Project-based learning introduces students to concepts by engaging them in projects customised to achieve learning outcomes. It helps students develop a finer understanding of the learning matter, and in most cases helps them develop a deeper connection with the subject. This leads to longer-term retention of the subject matter.

Higher-order thinking and problemsolving skills
Project-based learning encourages critical thinking, as students find themselves in the middle of projects where they have to solve problems. In undertaking these projects, students view the questions