Do you know anything about project-based online school? If not, let me tell you about a unique kind of digital learning which provides an environment to complete real life projects.
From young learners to adults, everyone loves to do various practical projects that not only help in remembering the lessons but also address complex questions.
That’s where project-based learning comes in. An approach that makes online traditional school way better than you have thought.
Project based online school is the best opportunity that encourages deep understanding, problem-solving and improvement of 21st century skills such as collaboration and communication skills.
If you are curious to know more about project based learning or project based online school here, we will uncover the new way of online education through project-based learning and explore how it works, benefits and many more!
Table of Contents
- What is Project-Based Learning?
- How Project-Based Online School Works?
- Features of Project-Based Online Schools
- Top 3 Project-Based Online Schools
- Benefits of Project-Based Learning
- Comparison Between: Homeschooling Vs Project-Based Online School
- 6 Tools Used in Project-Based Virtual Classrooms
- Conclusion
What is Project-Based Learning?
Project-based learning or PBL is an effective teaching technique designed for students to engage themselves in different kinds of project based learning activities.
It is a student centric method which consists of inquiry based learning collaboration, communication, engagement and most important practical application of lessons.
Unlike traditional classrooms, which offer teachers centric activities, PBL schools show learners manage their work and time for project based learning.
To implement project-based learning one must use PBL activities for better results.
You can also explore everything about project-based learning for students with special needs.
How Project-Based Online School Works?
Project based online School involves working on extended and real life projects which not only improve theoretical knowledge but also develop various skills.
Other than traditional learning, it is the best way of connecting kids with something they have created and are proud of.
Here’s an elaboration how project based online school works:
1. Online Platforms:
Online platform is an ideal way in project based learning which provides an environment where learners can present their work to an audience.
They can access learning material tools and virtual space for collaboration with peer and project management.
2. Curriculum Integration:
Integration of curriculum means selecting a theme, topic or problem initially for project based learning.
It designs learning environments that collaborate different subjects together to ensure engaging and real life projects.
It is an ideal way to interconnect the subject and students’ lives accurately.
3. Scaffolding:
In a project-based online school scaffolding provides temporary support for learners as they learn new concepts and skills.
This gradually reduces as they become more independent and capable of doing it all alone.
4. Assessment:
By including project based learning assessments in online School setting facilitators can evolve students’ learning.
Assessment in PBL is multi-dimensional, incorporating self-reflection, peer evaluation, and teacher observations, ensuring a holistic understanding of student progress.
Features of Project-Based Online Schools
Project-based online schools offer various features that help in student engagement.
It includes fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, communication skills, collaborative learning through long-term, real-world projects etc.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the features:
1. Student-Centered Learning
In project-based online schools student-centered learning refers to active student participation of learners.
Also, includes personalized learning and the improvement of critical thinking skills through practical projects in the classroom.
2. Collaborative Learning
There are many benefits of collaborative learning in PBL school. The main focus of facilitators is to guide learners for teamwork and effective communication while working on projects.
This not only helps them to collaborate but also shows that they are sharing responsibilities, strength and upcoming challenges.
3. Inquiry-Based Approach
Inquiry-based learning is an approach in which learners simply learn with the help of questions, deep investigation and tangible projects that address real world challenges.
Here the facilitator familiarises learners with inquiry based learning and provides support so learners can work on solutions.
4. Deeper Understanding & Skill Development
Deep understanding and skill development is something that PBL schools foster in learners.
It is a dynamic and engaging approach ensures rote memorization, passive and self-directed learning.
Top 3 Project-Based Online Schools
Now you can go through various schools and platforms that provide facilities of project-based online learning.
Here are top three project-based online schools that you can consider for kids:
1. 21K School
21K School is one of the recognized and popular platforms in project-based online schools in the world. The school is not only for non-disabled but also provides customized syllabus for learners.
It also offers a project-based curriculum focused on real-world problem solving. Students work on interdisciplinary projects with 21st century technology in education.
2. Prisma
Prisma is a virtual platform started with partnership with CocoCoders who offers coding classes to kids aged between 6 to 12 using project-based learning.
Prisma is one of the best among all which provides fun learning to students. Experimental learning is one of the popular ways through which kids can learn coding and programming anytime anywhere.
3. Kubrio
If you have heard of one of the popular names, Kubrio is definitely on your list.
Learners take online classes especially those who are aged between 8 to 18. The platform is structured around teacher-led quests.
Also read, how online school helps children with social anxiety.
These quests include a diverse range of subjects. For example, public speaking, 3D printing, and filmmaking, all delivered through a project-based approach.
Benefits of Project-Based Learning
Learners can go through various project-based learning benefits which enhance knowledge.
Some common advantages are deeper understanding of subjects, enhanced student engagement and improvement in essential 21st-century skills.
Let’s understand everything in more detailed information of the benefits of project-based online learning:
1. Increased Student Engagement
Increased student engagement refers to making learning meaningful, hand on experience and relevant for everyone.
PBL school focuses on increased student engagement by guiding students to make real life projects. This improves both education and academic performance.
If you want to know how online schools can support young athletes, you must read this blog.
2. Deeper Learning and Retention
One of the advantages of PBL school is enhancing long term knowledge retention and deepening understanding.
By using knowledge into meaningful projects and tasks which ensures connection with different subjects leads to memory retention and problem-solving skills.
Instead of rote learning or memory based education which includes memory based games for kids, PBL school mainly aims for real world situations.
3. Skill Development
Project-based learning school works on skill development of learners which means improved learning outcomes, critical thinking abilities and time management skills.
It also helps them to improve with time and effort.
4. Personalized Learning
In PBL, personalized learning plays a crucial role by providing a flexible environment that helps learners to work on their own peace and deal with real world problems.
Students here aim to focus on the project which ultimately leads to development of skill based learning.
5. Improved Academic Outcomes
Improved academy outcome means increase in grades and marksheet of learner which helps in boosting confidence and self efficacy.
These types of schools are ideal for empowering critical thinking and preparing them for future challenges and academic success.
Comparison Between: Homeschooling Vs Project-Based Online School
Homeschooling and project-based online schools both offer alternatives to traditional schooling. However, both are different in structure, curriculum, cost and parental involvement.
Here’s a detailed information of comparison between homeschooling and project-based online schools:
S.No. | Particulars | Homeschooling | Project-Based Online School |
1. | Structure | Homeschooling structure is flexible, parent-led or tutor-based. Its schedules vary widely. | Project-based online school is a structured online environment with deadlines and teacher support. |
2. | Learning | Learning is customized to a child’s pace and interests. | Project-based online school is student-centered, inquiry-driven, and project-based. |
3. | Cost | The cost varies. This can be low-cost or high depending on resources used. | Project-based online school involves tuition or subscription fees. |
4. | Socialization | Socialization in homeschooling is limited unless families join co-ops, clubs or groups. | Socialization in project-based online school includes virtual group work, presentations, and peer interaction. |
5. | Parents’ Role | Parents play a primary role as educators and planners. There is heavy involvement required for good results. | Parents play supportive roles. Also, educators and facilitators guide the learning. |
6. | Curriculum | Curriculum is chosen or designed by parents, may be faith-based or alternative. | Curriculum here is aligned with academic standards, integrated into projects. |
7. | Chances to Share Project | Chances to share project is limited to family or local events unless externally organized. | In project-based learning there is a chances to share projects are regular digital presentations, showcases, and peer feedback. |
6 Tools Used in Project-Based Virtual Classrooms
Project-based learning in virtual classrooms relies on various tools that facilitate communication, collaboration and project management.
Here are some popular tools used by learners and facilitators:
1. Kahoot!
Kahoot! is a project-based learning tool used in virtual classrooms for learners’ engagement and knowledge.
Through Kahoot! facilitators can design different interactive games and quizzes that help learners to work in a fun and competitive learning environment.
2. Google Classroom
If you are looking for a tool that includes various facilities, Google classroom can be an ideal solution for project based learning school.
There are various applications kids can use for example Google Docs sheets slides which gives editing and securing options.
It’s time to go digital and work efficiently for project based learning.
3. Seesaw
Seesaw is a kind of play paste tool that offers various advantages to create, share and interact with their work especially as a team.
With Seesaw, students can document work, save them for a longer period and share when you’re needed to facilitators and other classmates.
By this way learners can receive feedback and create a learning environment.
4. Padlet
One of the versatile play with learning tools is Padlet which offers functions such as digital bulletin boards. It is specially designed for virtual classrooms.
Now learners can easily post, share and organise lessons in the form of text video image or link format.
5. ClassDojo
ClassDojo, a unique type of tool design for project based learning schools mainly focus on communication feedback and classroom management.
Some common benefits ClassDojo offers are information sharing, student engagement and behavior tracking.
6. EDpuzzle
A tool that makes video content engaging and interactive is known as Edpuzzle. Here facilitators can add interactive elements in video, quizzes etc.
This ultimately ensures active involvement of students which ultimately track their progress and analyse learning.
Conclusion
In the 21st century, if you are looking for an transformer educational journey for your kid then project based learning school can be an ideal match for you.
By understanding the benefits why project-based online schooling is good for mental health of each learner, parents and teachers can ensure growth in learners.
Combination of the best online learning techniques provide flexibility, accessibility, and personalized learning pacing to work on real-world projects. In this digital era learners gain knowledge with the skills and mindset needed for lifelong education.
Project-based online schools provide quality education in 21st century learners. But don’t forget to use the right tool techniques and support by the facilitator and parents.
Project based online school is a place for a facilitator seeking innovation or a learner looking for more meaningful learning. It is the pathway to discover how online schooling helps invest in children’s futures.
Frequently asked questions about online school to clarify all the questions.