Project-Based Learning

(PBL) is an instructional approach where traditional, direct classroom instruction and tests are replaced by authentic, often interdisciplinary projects, usually designed by the student with guidance from instructors/coaches, addressing real-world problems as the assessment instead of a test. It also is closely related to deeper learning, challenge-based learning, interest-based learning and more.

Learner-Centered

Why the Experience of Experience Matters: Designing learning through experiences that actually have an impact

Guest Author

Oct 1, 2026

Project-Based Learning

Lever 2 for Deeper PoG Implementation: Teaching the Skills Behind the Portrait

Abby Benedetto, Kimberly Erickson

Mar 23, 2026

Two teenage girls writing notes while a teacher points to their chemistry worksheets in a science lab classroom.

Leadership

How AI Impacts the Use of Protocols in the K-12 Classroom

David Ross

Mar 12, 2026

Students in safety goggles collaborate on a tablet during a science lab, with classmates working in the background.

Project-Based Learning

Why PBL and 21st Century Skills Aren’t “Add-Ons”: Using AI to Prove They’re in the Standards

David Ross

Feb 10, 2026

Mother and child snorkeling underwater together, both wearing diving masks, flashing OK and peace signs

Future of Work

Learning to Let Go (and Stay Connected): A Parent’s View from 2040

Carri Schneider

Oct 28, 2025

Bamboo and thatched open-air pavilion at Green School Bali, surrounded by tropical banana leaves and palm trees

Learning Design

Learning Conducive to Life: A Radical Approach at the Biomimicry for Regenerative Design Lab at Green Schools Bali

Guest Author

Jul 22, 2025

Two students in scrubs practice taking blood pressure with a cuff and stethoscope during a hands-on health sciences class.

New Pathways

The Student-Led, Industry-Connected Learning: Voices from the CAPS Network

Guest Author

May 30, 2025

Explore the transformative impact of Profession Based Learning (ProBL) with CAPS Network, empowering students through real-world industry partnerships.

A middle school student in a pink hoodie and glasses gazes thoughtfully upward during a classroom lesson.

Learning Design

Why Learning Experiences Must Intellectually Challenge All Students

Carri Schneider

Dec 20, 2024

Intellectually challenging learning experiences foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience in students for real-world success.

Image from Getting Smart's New Pathways Convening.

EdTech

Can’t-Miss Education Conferences in 2025

Getting Smart Staff

Nov 25, 2024

Explore top education conferences in 2025 to connect with thought leaders and discover innovations in edtech, AI, and personalized learning.

Difference Making

The Importance of Purpose-Based Learning in K-12 Education

Nate McClennen

Nov 21, 2024

Purpose-based learning connects students to real-world tasks, boosting engagement and preparing them for societal contributions.

	Beginning	Piloting	Implementing
From Fixed Standards to Competency-Based Mastery	BeginningFrom Fixed Standards to Competency-Based Mastery Beginning	PilotingFrom Fixed Standards to Competency-Based Mastery Piloting	ImplementingFrom Fixed Standards to Competency-Based Mastery Implementing
From One-Size-Fits-All to Adaptive Learning	BeginningFrom One-Size-Fits-All to Adaptive Learning Beginning	PilotingFrom One-Size-Fits-All to Adaptive Learning Piloting	ImplementingFrom One-Size-Fits-All to Adaptive Learning Implementing
From Prescribed Knowledge to Innovation & Inquiry	BeginningFrom Prescribed Knowledge to Innovation & Inquiry Beginning	PilotingFrom Prescribed Knowledge to Innovation & Inquiry Piloting	ImplementingFrom Prescribed Knowledge to Innovation & Inquiry Implementing
From Subjects as Silos to Transdisciplinary, Real-World Learning	BeginningFrom Subjects as Silos to Transdisciplinary, Real-World Learning Beginning	PilotingFrom Subjects as Silos to Transdisciplinary, Real-World Learning Piloting	ImplementingFrom Subjects as Silos to Transdisciplinary, Real-World Learning Implementing
From Schools as Self-Contained to Schools as Embedded in Communities	BeginningFrom Schools as Self-Contained to Schools as Embedded in Communities Beginning	PilotingFrom Schools as Self-Contained to Schools as Embedded in Communities Piloting	ImplementingFrom Schools as Self-Contained to Schools as Embedded in Communities Implementing
From Standardized Testing to Meaningful Assessment	BeginningFrom Standardized Testing to Meaningful Assessment Beginning	PilotingFrom Standardized Testing to Meaningful Assessment Piloting	ImplementingFrom Standardized Testing to Meaningful Assessment Implementing
From Institutional Ownership of Student Data to Student-Controlled Learning Wallets	BeginningFrom Institutional Ownership of Student Data to Student-Controlled Learning Wallets Beginning	PilotingFrom Institutional Ownership of Student Data to Student-Controlled Learning Wallets Piloting	ImplementingFrom Institutional Ownership of Student Data to Student-Controlled Learning Wallets Implementing

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Project-Based Learning

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