PBL and IBL: Advantages and Uses in the Classroom

Project-Based Learning and Inquiry-Based Learning:

Project-Based Learning and Inquiry-Based Learning are both important to be incorporated into a classroom. These two learning styles have some similarities, but also have differences. Both learning styles include more of a focus on the students learning and thinking on their own, as opposed to the teacher feeding students their information. 

Project-Based Learning(PBL) " is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to an engaging and complex question, problem, or challenge." (What Is Project Based Learning (PBL)?). During Project-Based Learning the teacher in a way guides the students into the roles in which they will learn. In PBL the focus is on students thinking critically in order to achieve goals in their learning. By posing a challenge problem or question students must investigate and research to find answers to support their ideas. Another key component to Project-Based Learning is having students reflect and critique their work as well as sharing their work for others to learn from. A good example of Project-Based Learning and roles of the teacher vs the students can be viewed here: Video. 




Inquiry-Based Learning  (IBL) is centralized around two key components: the first is the students and the second is questioning. In IBL the role of the teacher is very limited, in fact they are essentially only providing students with a questions and then assisting them as needed.  Inquiry relies on the student conducting their own learning via investigations, evaluations and research in order to grasp an understanding of a concept. Students using questioning is the key to IBL. Students learn the concepts of a subject through their findings on the proposed question. In most cases we see IBL style used in mathematics and science, but it's can be very affected in all subject areas if incorporated effectively.  

"Five-Year-Olds Pilot Their Own Project-Based Learning." Edutopia. 09 May 2007. Web.08               Feb. 2016. 
<http://www.edutopia.org/kindergarten-project-based-learning-video>.
"Inquiry-based Learning: Explanation." Inquiry-based Learning: Explanation. Educational                  Broadcasting Corporation., 2004. Web. 08 Feb. 2016.                                                              <http://www.thirteen.org/edonline/concept2class/inquiry/>.
"What Is Project Based Learning (PBL)?" What Is PBL? Web. 08 Feb. 2016.                                    <http://bie.org/about/what_pbl>.