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Project-based learning is a teaching method that engages students in learning knowledge and skills through an extended inquiry process structured around complex, authentic questions and carefully designed products and tasks. Some educators believe that this method is a more engaging and challenging way for students to learn. Projects have been an important teaching method in the classroom for many years, and it is just as important for a teacher to have a plan to implement project-based learning as it is for a student to plan his own project. Great projects begin with a plan for the final result, and it is important to allow students to use their critical thinking skills. This is what project-based learning is for.

There are five design principles for project-based learning. The first is to begin with the end in mind. It is important to plan a project that is designed to develop certain knowledge and important skills. These must be defined before a project is designed. It is important to be able to take what is learned from the project and apply it.

The second step is to craft the driving question. A good driving question will make the project intriguing and complex. The driving question will help the project achieve its natural outcome. It will help to keep the student focused on the project and what is meant to be accomplished.

Third is to plan the assessment. This is needed to measure the knowledge and skills that a project creates. It tells whether a project is successful or not. This step is important in deciding what can be improved in a project, and in providing timely and useful feedback to the student.

The fourth step is to map the project. In this step the instructional needs are analyzed, the activities are selected, a timeline is established, and the resources needed are prepared. This step lets a person know what the project looks like. A project map is like a lesson plan for a teacher. It gives structure to the project.

The fifth and last step is to manage the process. In this step the educator shifts from being the one in charge to being an assistant who helps guide the student through the project. It is in this step that the teacher keeps the student focused on the project and helps lead it to a conclusion.

To design a project-based learning system is a project in itself. It is important to take the steps to properly plan what this system is going to accomplish. The five design principles of project-based learning are the basis for the whole system. If the educator and students are to be successful, then these principles should be followed.

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