Topic outline

  • General

  • Welcome


  • Module 1: Introduction to PBL

    • Project-based Learning (PBL) is an investigative approach  to teaching and learning. The technique is not an addition to the curriculum.  It is a continuous process that plays a significant role in deepening the learning experience in all curriculum subjects.

      In this module we will look at the basic concept of what is PBL. On completion you should be able to,

      1. Explain what is PBL;
      2. Describe how PBL and 21st Century skills are aligned;
      3. Describe the benefits of PBL;
      4. Implement PBL to actualize national education priorities and as required by the Curriculum Assessment and Policy Statements (CAPS).
      5. Change your role as educator and move from supporting 'explicit' instruction to 'implicit' instruction.

    • M1 Unit 1 Access Module 1 course content by clicking the box below...

    • Discuss and Reflect

      Use the class forum below to discuss the issues raised in Module 1, particularly...

      M1: Unit 2 - 21st Century Skills

      • How do you think you can start introducing PBL as an approach for teaching and learning across the curriculum? 
      • Describe the current practice of PBL at your school. 
      • What other skills does PBL reinforce in the context of the South African CAPS curriculum? 

      M1: Unit 3 - Benefits of PBL

      • Identify three benefits of PBL that would improve your subject, class and even school.

      M1: Unit 4 - PBL and the CAPS Curriculum

      • Why do you think that in the CAPS vision it is emphasized that South Africa should be free of violence, discrimination and prejudice?
      • What are the goals of the curriculum framework of South Africa?
      • How can PBL be used as a strategy to address CAPS paradigm/philosophy?
      • Look at a topic you have recently taught and consider possible ways in which PBL might be helpful to develop the envisioned CAPS.

      M1: Unit 5 - PBL and Teachers' Role

      • How prevalent is 'Implicit Instruction' in your school?
      • Do you think it is important to get support and buy-in from students, colleagues and parents before embarking on a PBL approach?
      • What information would you discuss with students, colleagues and parents when introducing this innovative approach to learning?
      • What section of the CAPS curriculum would lend itself to this approach?
      • What are some benefits of having students solve real life problems using solutions of their own design?


  • Module 2: PBL Steps, Tools and Assessment

    • M1 Unit 2 Access Module 2 course content by clicking the box below...

    • Discuss and Reflect

      Use the class forum below to discuss the issues raised in Module 2

  • Module 3: Developing a PBL Culture

    • Module 3 Access Module 3 course content by clicking the box below...

    • Discuss and Reflect

      Use the class forum below to discuss the issues raised in Module 2

  • Module 4: Harnessing ICT to support PBL

    • M1 Unit 2 Access Module 4 course content by clicking the box below...

    • Discuss and Reflect

      Use the class forum below to discuss the issues raised in Module 2

  • Final Assignment