Using PBL to develop 21st-century skills

In today’s classrooms, students need more than academic knowledge to thrive in college, careers and beyond. As a result, educators are dually tasked with increasing core subject comprehension and developing 21st-century skills, especially in STEM. Project-based learning (PBL) is designed to do both.

By inviting students to solve real-world challenges in their own community, we can draw the connection between these modern skills and the changing world around us.

It’s safe to assume we all have a general understanding of PBL, and many of us have likely experimented with its use in the classroom. However, adopting PBL as regular practice is not an overnight task.

Related content: Employing a differentiated mindset when teaching STEM

To transition from a traditional approach, consider using TGR EDU: Explore, a collaborative initiative between TGR Foundation and Discovery Education. This is how a project-based learning environment can be implemented in the classroom.

Define 21st-century skills and goals

What exactly are the skills that young people need to master to be successful after school? The National Association of Colleges and Employees identified key college and career competencies as soft skills such as problem solving, leadership and work ethic, in addition to basic technical skills, such as digital fluency.