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As technology and innovation continue to reshape the world, the ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and collaborate effectively is more important than ever. At Community School, we believe that project-based learning (PBL) equips students with the essential skills needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced world. But what is PBL, and how does it prepare students for the future?

What Is Project-Based Learning?

Project-based learning is a teaching approach where students actively explore real-world problems and challenges. Rather than relying solely on traditional lectures or memorization, PBL engages students in hands-on, meaningful projects that require them to apply what they’re learning in creative and practical ways. PBL fosters curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning by giving students a sense of ownership and purpose in their work.

PBL in Action: A STEAM-Focused Open House

Our annual STEAM-Focused Open House showcases PBL at its best. The event allows current and prospective families to see PBL in action as middle school students transform classroom lessons into interactive projects and presentations.

Leading up to the open house, middle school students select topics they are passionate about to investigate and explore. Last year’s topics ranged from DNA extraction and animal adaptations to art and book design and environmental studies. Students worked collaboratively to research, design, and create their projects, honing critical thinking and problem-solving skills along the way. 

At the event, middle schoolers took center stage as teachers and facilitators, engaging visitors in activities like creating coding bracelets, producing stop-motion videos, and chocolate tasting that explored the chemistry of chocolate-making. These experiences not only reinforce academic content but also develop leadership and communication skills as students guide and inspire others.

Why Does PBL Work?

According to Youki Terada, in New Research Makes a Powerful Case for PBL, “In two gold-standard, randomized, controlled trials of thousands of students in diverse school systems across the U.S., project-based learning significantly outperformed traditional curricula, raising academic performance across grade levels, socioeconomic subgroups, and reading ability.”

Project-based learning works because it makes learning engaging, relevant, and impactful. It helps increase student motivation and retention of knowledge. When students care about what they’re doing and see the purpose of their efforts, they stay engaged and remember what they’ve learned.

Real-World Impact

At Community School, the impact of PBL extends beyond the classroom. Our students actively engage in both the school and the local community by developing recycling programs, planting gardens, organizing school dances, and leading other campus improvements. Our students have organized fundraisers for area groups in need, designed and painted murals in the community, and have competed in regional robotics, environmental, Model UN, and music competitions.

Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders

The problems of tomorrow will require innovative solutions, and project-based learning prepares students to meet these challenges head-on. By fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration, PBL ensures that our students are ready to become the problem solvers, leaders, and changemakers of the future.

At Community School, students don’t just learn facts—they learn how to think, create, and lead.

Join us!

Our next STEAM-Focused Open House is on Wednesday, January 29th, 2025. It’s a fun and engaging evening for families and a wonderful opportunity to experience the energy and creativity that define our approach to education.