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​EEA RESOURCES
Project-Based Learning

What is Project-Based Learning (PBL)?

Project-based learning (PBL) is a student-directed, collaborative learning process that results in a project or product. Some projects are contrived, such as designing and building a tower from spaghetti. Other projects are authentic, such as solving a local environmental problem.  Regardless of the type of project, most PBL approaches are student-led. Rather than the teacher selecting a class project, students are engaged in "design thinking" and given "voice and choice" to identify and implement solutions, assess results, and refine their approach. Most project results are presented to relevant stakeholders or community members for feedback. ​

The Continuum of Environmental Awareness, Know-How, Problem-Solving and Action

Adapted by EEA from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Engaging students in environmental education and outdoor learning is more than simply providing content knowledge. It is a process that ranges from nature connection and environmental awareness to action, and increases student capacity, competence, and confidence in designing and carrying out solutions to bite-sized, local environmental problems. Student-directed problem solving: environmental stewardship, is a type of project-based learning.
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G.R.E.A.T.  Project Storylines from EEA and CPF

   The Framework
GREAT Projects are organized around the acronym for which they are named. After observing an anchoring phenomenon (which illustrates a science concept without explaining it), students ask questions and try to make sense of the phenomenon; then Gather information (do research) and collect data locally; use Reason to analyze their data and info; and Explore further by making a model, conducting an investigation, or completing a teacher-provided lesson. Then students identify a local problem related to the phenomenon; brainstorm possible solutions in small groups; refine an idea; pitch it to the rest of the class; and collectively decide which solution to carry out, based on feasibility and potential impact. After organizing to decide on roles and responsibilities and then plan the project, students Act by carrying out the project and assessing the impact of their work.  Typically, they present project results to an authentic audience, such as community members who are affected by the problem, and Teach what they learned from the process. The last step is reflection.
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    Key Research that informs the GREAT Project Storylines 

The Environmental Education Alliance, in partnership with Captain Planet Foundation, is creating a series of scaffolded project guides that lead a class from decision point to decision point through a project-based learning process that includes observation of a phenomenon, problem identification, research, investigations, ideation and pitching of solutions, engagement with the community,  project implementation, assessment, and reflection. The scaffolded approach used throughout the GREAT Project Storylines is based on the following key research.

Connection to Nature

3-Dimensional Learning

Graduated Challenges 
“As a result of the curriculum initiative, education officials found that students felt hopeless and disempowered. The problems were seemingly so widespread and beyond their control that the students tended to turn away from, rather than face up to, participating in local attempts at problem- solving.​” - David Sobel in Ecophobia, 1996
3-dimensional learning is based on research into how children learn. Its key tenets include students observing and trying to make sense of phenomena before teacher explanations. Students engage in using science and engineering practices and looking for crosscutting concepts to better understand core ideas in science. 
Louise Chawla's research addresses both formative experiences in childhood (to which adults later attribute their environmental ethic), and a process of exploration through "graduated challenges" that result in growing environmental know-how, competence, and confidence in one's ability to change the world. 
“When children have satisfying experiences in the world nearby, they are motivated to explore further; and with each feature of the environment that they come to understand and each challenge that they overcome, they build greater levels of environmental knowledge and personal competence.”

   Sample GREAT Project Storylines 

The GREAT Project Storylines were designed to provide three-dimensional learning experiences that can be used equally effectively in states that have adopted the Next Generation Science Standards as in those that have not. 
 Water Quality 
Biodiversity
​Zero Heroes - coming soon

Environmental Stewardship = Authentic PBL 
Student Projects from This American Land and Captain Planet Foundation

If a picture tells a thousand words, watching a video conveys the potential and value of an instructional strategy such as project-based learning more effectively than reading the research on which it is built. Check out these videos of student projects, which vary widely in the degree of teacher facilitation, and get inspired! Then read the research if you would like to know more.

PBL Models with Environmental Project Templates

Sustainable School Programs that Feature Project-based Learning

There are several whole school initiatives that focus on the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals as a compass for student projects. Some of these programs offer professional learning for teachers and all provide recognition for schools that make improvements toward a sustainable future, often focused on school operations. To learn more, click the buttons below.
Environmental Education Alliance, Inc.  
P.O. Box 801066 | Acworth, GA 30101

EEA does not does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in its program , activities, or employment. For more information on EEA's non-discrimination commitment click here .
​Grievance officer may be contacted at info@eealliance.org
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