Elementary Teachers' Perceptions of Project-Based Learning

• In Event: Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: Learning Environments With Elementary-Age Classrooms

Abstract

Although initiatives that integrate authentic and student-driven instructional approaches have different names, such as inquiry learning, problem-based learning, and project-based learning (PBL), they share the common goal of engaging students through exploring real-world issues and solving practical problems. This study explores elementary (grades K-6) teachers’ perceptions of PBL and the implementation process. The findings suggest that what is known about PBL implementation and student outcomes at the secondary and postsecondary levels may also be true for PBL implementation at the elementary level. Teachers who participated in this study reported that students of all ability levels learn content and 21st-century skills in their PBL classrooms, and that students are highly engaged in learning because projects are authentic.

Authors

• Jill Bradley-Levine, Ball State University

• Gina Gabriele Mosier, Indiana University - Bloomington