What is project-based learning? 3rd-grade teacher Kelly Hill explains what project-based learning (PBL) means.

Click here to watch video clip

Imagine a classroom where students are learning about the world and actively changing it. Imagine a classroom where students are empowered to use their unique talents and abilities to make a difference. This is the power of project-based learning Project Based Learning  (PBL).

PBL is a progressive education approach that engages students in real-world projects. Students work collaboratively to research, design, and implement solutions to complex problems. In the process, they develop a wide range of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Kelly Hill, one of AJA’s 3rd-grade teachers, explains that PBL forces students to hone their critical thinking skills while answering real-life questions and creating their voice.

“To give you a better sense of this, AJA 4th Graders, for example, explored the question ‘what is electricity?’,” Interim Head of School, Kari Loya, shared. “One student researched Benjamin Franklin, another Nicola Tesla, another Elon Musk, and so on. In Art class, students painted portraits of their inventors. In Science, they developed circuits. In Music, they worked with our music faculty to develop their own “electrifying” songs and lyrics! It’s so exciting to see how students come alive with project-based learning.”

As Jewish parents, we want our children to grow up as compassionate, responsible citizens committed to improving the world. Project-based learning is a powerful tool that can help us achieve this goal.

Click here to learn more about Project Based Learning at AJA.