PBL-lite

An opportunity for Virtual and Hybrid virtual learning PBL projects

What is PBL-Lite

PBL-lite is a modified framework for Project-based Learning (PBL) that can be used in virtual learning and hybrid or hyflex learning environments. Some key differences between PBL and PBL-lite are:

  1. All learning doesn’t have to be collaborative, project work can be completed individually.
  2. Projects can be shorter in length- suggested 2 weeks, in comparison to the traditional project-based experience which is an average of 4-6 weeks.
  3. Best practices of formative assessment are embedded, but the “feedback loop” can be shared with peers, experts and other adults at home.
  4. Not all learning has to happen in the context of a project. In PBL-lite a teacher may decide to simply design for one or two content areas only, rather than a fully interdisciplinary experience.

To hear Jenny discuss the PBL-lite framework with a group of educators, you can view this video from a conference presentation, Indiana Connected Educators Virtual Conference.

YOU Can Get Back in the Driver Seat!

If you are looking to take back control of your craft and get back to meaningful teaching and learning this is for you! If you are a teacher new to virtual learning and searching for ways to create more meaningful learning experiences, this framework is for you! If you are a school leader trying to figure out how to make the most of a hybrid learning schedule, PBL-lite is for you! If you are an educator who has tried PBL but not had success, PBL-lite is a great “reboot”, or if you are a teacher who wants to try PBL but isn’t ready to make the full leap, PBL-lite is a great way to get started. And hey, if you are a parent hoping to create more relevant learning experiences for your child at home, PBL-lite is for you too!

Let CraftED help in a way that works for YOU!

Get started as early as TODAY. Here are several proven-success paths for getting started with PBL-lite:

  1. Onsite or virtual Workshops/Professional Development for teachers
  2. Self-paced PBL E-course, now with modules on adapting to virtual and hybrid learning via PBL-lite!
  3. Book materials- PBL planning, assessment in PBL, and NEW! E-book “PBL ahead” available as free download on publisher website with purchase of existing PBL book .
  4. Blended learning PD- a combination of virtual workshops, e-courses and virtual project coaching

See how schools are using CraftED’s resources with this e-guide.

Learn Today, Start Tomorrow!
How to do virtual PBL -lite

There are 5 steps (rather than CraftED’s typical 10 steps) for planning; they are:

  1. Create a rich context- Lean on science or social studies standards to connect to real-world issues.
  2. Backwards Plan- Decide on a final product and then decide how to scaffold content and skills needed for the final product.
  3. Prepare to launch-create digital hub for all project material and develop “live launch” plans
  4. Design on feedback options- synchronous or asynchronous options, where it makes sense.
  5. Leverage golden opportunities- Seize the opportunity to have students out of the classroom more by incorporating more field work in the community and technology to share student learning with a broader audience than a traditional exhibition.

Use this PBL-lite planning form to help you get started planning meaningful learning experiences, and check out this completed PBL -lite virtual project that is ready for you to run as early as tomorrow!

Learn more about PBL -lite from an Expert

You can learn more about Jenny and her work as a PBL and virtual learning expert in the links provided.

“PBL-lite” is created and copyrighted by PBL expert Dr. Jenny Pieratt May 2020, all rights reserved.
Currently in process of Trademark.