Pros and Cons of Project-Based Learning

Characteristics of Project-Based Learning | Pros and Cons

Project-based learning is a teaching method where children acquire knowledge by working for a more extended period. In other words, project-based learning is a practical approach to gain knowledge and skills. It offers opportunities to learn deeper in context and develop essential skills. In project-based learning, students often solve problems, conduct case studies, and promote research projects according to different subjects.

Characteristics of Project-Based Learning

The project-based learning has its distinct features that result in a more in-depth student’s understanding. These are:

Inter-disciplinary

The teaching focuses on engaging students with real-world problems. It is an interdisciplinary approach because the knowledge of a single subject area is not enough. The projects require students to involve in inquiry and solution binding to address the challenge presented. As a result, students often use knowledge and skills from different academic domains to complete the project.

Rigorous

Project-based learning needs knowledge and skills, not just recall and recognition. When students involve in the work of the project, they follow the process of inquiry. Inquiry helps in more in-depth learning, not only of academic content but also the content related to real-world situations. The process can help in developing a solution that includes the challenge of the project.

Student-Centered

In project-based learning, students work more independently while teachers provide help when needed. Education allows students to make their own decisions and demonstrate their understanding. It promotes the student’s independence, ownership of work, and workplace skills.

Pros of Project-Based Learning

The advantages of project-based learning are explained below:

Deep Learning

It replaces the traditional teaching method with real-life experiences. 

It promotes deep learning and helps to develop learning skills.

Develops recalling and retention ability

The students can build recalling and retention abilities. 

It involves group discussion, which helps them improve their theories. 

Open-Ended Questions

Open-ended questions are the central part of project-based learning.

It allows students to have open discussions, retrieving information, etc. 

Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills

The successful completion of projects leads to discussion and memorization of facts

It helps the students to build teamwork and collaboration skills.

Cons of Project-Based Learning

Some of the disadvantages of project-based learning are:

Requires a lot of time and efforts

A project-based learning curriculum involves a lot of time and energy on the student’s part.

It requires constant monitoring of the student’s process.

Poor performance in theoretical exams

The students devote their time to practical learning, which in turn results in the unavailability to write theory in the exam.