Project Based Learning

Project-Based Learning encourages an instructional approach built upon authentic learning activities that engage student interest and motivation. PBL is generally done by groups of students (normally 4 - 6 students) working together toward a common goal and PBL activities are designed to answer a question or solve a problem and generally reflect the types of learning and team work people use every day in the real world.

Performance is assessed on an individual basis, and takes into account the quality of the product produced, the depth of content understanding demonstrated, and the contributions made to the ongoing process of project realization. PBL is synonymous with learning in depth.  A well-designed project provokes students to encounter (and struggle with) the central concepts and principles of a discipline.

The furniture and technology equipment in each Orenda school is arranged to support a PBL environment.  When you walk into an Orenda school you will see areas designed to feel like you are coming to work for a high tech or creative arts company with multi-functional space and open areas for group collaboration. PBL areas are arranged to support small group collaboration with casual furniture, circular tables, a smart white board or other digital equipment.