This beginner-friendly professional development course teaches educators how to create and administer high-quality Project-Based Learning (PBL) experiences in STEM teaching. Teachers will learn about the basic principles of PBL through five practical modules, as well as how to connect projects with standards (NGSS and Common Core), manage PBL in the classroom, and encourage student collaboration. Participants will acquire tools and strategies for making STEM learning more active, student-centered, and real-world relevant, thereby building 21st-century skills and boosting student outcomes. Whether you teach elementary, middle, or high school, this course will help you tailor PBL to your specific context and create richer, more meaningful learning experiences.
Design high-quality, standards-aligned PBL units using Gold Standard PBL elements
Craft effective driving questions and project scopes
Facilitate collaboration and teamwork in student groups
Scaffold and manage student inquiry in STEM-based projects
Align PBL with NGSS and Common Core standards
Apply strategies to differentiate PBL for diverse learners
Build classroom cultures of reflection, revision, and accountability
Manage classroom logistics, time, and group dynamics during projects
Integrate technology tools to support collaboration and project management
Promote equity and inclusivity through PBL approaches
Develop and implement engaging PBL projects that foster student inquiry and creativity
Align project activities with key NGSS and Common Core learning standards
Facilitate and manage student-driven learning environments with effective scaffolding
Build collaborative student teams and teach core teamwork skills
Monitor student progress with formative assessment and feedback
Create authentic, real-world learning experiences in STEM classrooms
Adapt PBL strategies to suit K–12 grade bands and diverse classroom contexts
Apply tools and frameworks (e.g. project templates, rubrics, tech tools) to streamline PBL planning and facilitation
Foster a culture of growth mindset, innovation, and resilience among students
Aligning PBL with Curriculum Standards
Reflection prompts and design tasks to apply learning in your own classroom
Interactive quizzes for concept reinforcement
Downloadable templates (project planners, rubrics, team role charts)
Tool recommendations (collaboration platforms, real-world data sources)
Case studies and classroom examples (elementary through high school)
Resources for further study (NGSS guides, PBLWorks templates, Edutopia articles)
Adaptation tips for elementary, middle school, and high school classrooms
Strategies for equity and inclusion in PBL
Cerificate of Completion
Lessons
Introduction to Project-Based Learning in STEM
5 Sections1 hour 30 minutes
Project-Based Learning (PBL) engages students in meaningful, real-world projects where they actively investigate and solve complex problems. In STEM education, PBL mirrors how scientists and engineers work, building knowledge through inquiry, collaboration, and creativity. This lesson explores how PBL enhances learning, promotes 21st-century skills, and supports deep understanding across grade levels.
2 readings2 assignments1 summary
Aligning PBL with Curriculum Standards (NGSS and Common Core)
5 Sections1 hour
Aligning PBL with academic standards ensures that projects drive meaningful learning, not just engagement. In this session, we’ll explore how PBL naturally supports standards-based instruction, especially NGSS and Common Core. You’ll learn strategies to design rigorous, integrated projects that meet required outcomes while fostering authentic inquiry and cross-disciplinary skills.
2 readings2 assignments1 summary
Designing Effective PBL Projects (Essential Elements and Practical Strategies)
5 Sections1 hour
Designing effective project-based learning (PBL) experiences blends creativity with structure. This session explores the core elements of “Gold Standard PBL” and offers practical tips for creating engaging, challenging, and relevant projects. You'll also learn how to incorporate current events and global issues to make STEM projects more meaningful for students.
2 readings2 assignments1 summary
Facilitating and Managing PBL in the Classroom (Teacher’s Role & Scaffolding)
4 Sections1 hour
Project-Based Learning (PBL) thrives on purposeful facilitation. This lesson explores key practices that help teachers guide students toward deeper thinking, collaboration, and independence. From asking probing questions to managing group dynamics and providing scaffolds, you'll learn how to create a supportive, well-structured environment where students drive their own learning.
1 reading2 assignments1 summary
Fostering Collaboration and Teamwork in PBL
5 Sections2 hours
Collaboration is a cornerstone of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and an essential skill in STEM fields and beyond. In this lesson, we’ll explore practical strategies to foster effective teamwork in your classroom and how to form and support student teams, teach collaboration skills, promote accountability, and handle common group challenges.