Embracing PBL: Teacher Thoughts | Olivia Demille

As educators, we often grapple with finding the most effective methods to engage and empower our students in their learning journey. One approach that has gained momentum and captured my heart is Project-Based Learning (PBL).

Why Do You Like PBL?

“As educators, we often grapple with finding the most effective methods to engage and empower our students in their learning journey. One approach that has gained momentum and captured my heart is Project-Based Learning (PBL). When asked to describe what PBL is and why I favor it over traditional curriculum methods, I often find myself turning to an analogy.

Imagine yourself at a sporting event, surrounded by elite athletes showcasing their skills on the field. Amidst the intensity of the game, you don’t see them pausing to do push-ups or run wind sprints. Those are essential parts of their training, but they don’t resemble the actual competition.

In contrast, consider scrimmages. In PBL, students engage in contextual projects that mirror this aspect of athletic training. It’s akin to the coach stopping the action, offering guidance, and allowing players to practice specific skills within the game’s context.”

Olivia Demille, Centric Learning Mathematics Educator

How Does PBL Differ From Traditional Methods?

“Traditional curriculum methods, like conditioning drills, focus on building fundamental skills in isolation. While necessary, they often lack the connection to real-world applications that students crave. PBL takes those foundational skills and thrusts them into meaningful contexts, akin to athletes stepping onto the field.

Just as a baseball player wouldn’t go into a game without ever having touched a baseball, students shouldn’t leave school without applying their knowledge in authentic scenarios. PBL bridges this gap, helping students understand the relevance and impact of their learning in the modern world.

For me, PBL represents the next logical step in education. It not only equips students with essential skills but also instills in them a deeper understanding of why those skills matter. By embracing PBL, we empower our students to become not just learners, but thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.”

Olivia Demille, Centric Learning Mathematics Educator

Learn More About Project-Based Learning

Project-based learning is unique and allows students to work and learn in a way that better prepares them for the real world. Want to learn more about how PBL works? Visit our approach to learn more about how Centric Learning integrates project-based learning into our curriculum. You can also learn more information by visiting PBL Works and browsing their vast collection of project-based learning resources.