Project-based learning (PBL) is a nontraditional way of teaching and learning in which students can gain content knowledge and 21st century workplace skills by actively addressing authentic, real-world challenges. PBL is one of the five primary innovative approaches to public education the Riley Institute supports in South Carolina. Programming includes the Institute’s work with New Tech Network, PBL evaluation, and the PBL teaching credential.

About Project-Based Learning

In high-quality PBL settings, students work in teams, with teachers as guides. Projects are structured to incorporate content standards and are often multi-disciplinary, incorporating content from several different areas. These projects often develop over weeks or months, involve interaction with the broader community, and culminate in a team presentation. Students gain foundational life and workplace skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and communication.

High-quality PBL encourages multiple problem-solving techniques and fosters student choice. Because students naturally learn in different ways, PBL allows students to develop and apply their strengths as part of a team and be assessed on their ability to demonstrate meaningful application of essential knowledge and skills.

New Tech Network Implementation in South Carolina

New Tech Network Implementation in South Carolina

The New Tech Network project-based learning model has expanded in the state after a foundational 2013 project that implemented the approach in two rural schools.

Evaluation of Project-Based Learning

Evaluation of Project-Based Learning

The Institute is leading several projects that study PBL as a practice and explore models that use PBL as the primary pedagogical mode.

Project-Based Learning Teaching Credential

Project-Based Learning Teaching Credential

Teachers in South Carolina may earn a project-based learning teaching endorsement through coursework developed by the Riley Institute and Furman’s Department of Education.