Project-Based Learning (PBL) has been recognized as preparing K-12 for college and career. The Buck Institute for Education (BIE.org) defines project-based learning  (PBL) “as a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging and complex question, problem, or challenge.” It differs from a traditional project where students learn about a topic and then create a poster or product to display what they have learned at the end.  With project-based learning, on the other hand, the project is at the heart of investigative learning that involves real-world issues and an authentic audience.

PBL allows students to collaborate or work individually in finding different solutions in solving or addressing a rigorous driving question or problem. PBL is not a new pedagogy but has a long history.  Many schools today are recognizing that traditional lecture-oriented structures no longer meet the needs for today’s workforce and are focusing on deeper learning through project-based learning.

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By the nature of grappling with real-world issues and driving questions, PBL and inquiry-based learning, in general, are interdisciplinary in nature. To design solutions to problems, students have to apply skills from various disciplines.