Project-Based Learning

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a youth-centric strategy for program planning that sets meaningful and engaging challenges, problems or projects that young people engage with over a period of time. PBL is a great fit for afterschool's unique learning environment. OST programs tend to have a flexible curriculum that can be shaped around the interests of young people and the less formal setting encourages collaboration, and multi-age grouping helps drive peer-to-peer learning. Use these resources to get you started and check out our Project Based Learning playlist on YouTube. If you need additional support or have questions - fill out our Request Technical Assistance form in Quick Links.

View this video overview from Edutopia on the difference between Projects and Project-Based Learning 

Read this Project-Based Learning resource guide for more information

Use this KWHL chart in Project-Based Learning programming

View this video from Edutopia on implementing STEAM and PBL

Access these additional STEM and PBL resources:

• State Inquiry Experience
• Science Buddies
• ARMS wiki
• PBL Works (you will need to register)
• You for Youth (Y4Y)
• National 4-H Organization

Access these additional Arts and PBL resources:

• Arts Infused Project-Based Learning
• 5 PBL Lesson Ideas for Arts Integration
• Reimagining Art in PBL