I really need help with the design of a project-based learning (PBL) online project.

—H., Virginia

In my opinion, project-based lessons are the way to go with online education. I believe this would be less stressful for everyone, and if you set the lesson up right, allow for some powerful inquiry and motivation. The toughest part for the teacher will be “letting go” and not being the center of the learning. Another plus: Project-based lessons can be tailored to a student’s interests and modified to fit their access to technology. 

Choose a broad topic that offers students multiple options of what they can research or work on. For instance, a life science topic like conservation allows students many choices of subtopics to focus on. They’ll likely pick something they are personally interested in, which will also engage them in the work. 

Similarly, allow them to choose what they will produce as the end product: Hand-drawn posters, websites, letters to local politicians, animations, videos, and musical pieces all can help students demonstrate their understanding in a way that highlights their strengths and abilities.

Teaching a topic to others is one of the best ways to learn, understand, and retain knowledge. Have students produce books, videos, science demos, or songs for teaching what they’ve learned to younger students or peers. 

Flexibility is key to good projects. Tell students they can suggest alternatives to what you may have outlined for them. I’ve had students create public service announcements, “mockumentaries,” information booths at public events, and other end products that I never had envisioned.

To keep students on task, set deadlines for certain milestones such as choosing a topic, completing research, submitting a proposal, and so on. But show some flexibility by allowing students the necessary time to do a good job.  

Hope this helps!