Belief in Succeeding
Project-based learning is a teaching method that allows students to gain knowledge and skills through the completion of an extended project that involves solving real-world problems or answering complex questions (Krajcik et al., 2006).
One of the key benefits of project-based learning for neurodivergent individuals is the opportunity to see a tangible result at the end of a project. For many neurodivergent people, traditional educational settings can be challenging. Traditional class settings are often overwhelming as they are simply too structured, rigorous, and heavily focused on passing assessments. This can lead to frustration and self-doubt, as they may not feel like they can achieve success in a traditional classroom. When project-based learning is employed, neurodivergent individuals can work towards a set goal, such as completing a project or solving a real-world problem and are able to see the tangible results of their efforts. This can be incredibly empowering and can help neurodivergent individuals develop a sense of belief in their own abilities.
Project-based learning also allows neurodivergent individuals to see the inner workings of how the result was achieved, which can be a valuable learning experience for this population. Neurodivergent individuals often process ideas differently, which can impact how they learn and understand information. What project-based learning does is allow neurodivergent individuals to participate in hands-on learning experiences, which can help them better understand and retain information. By participating in a project from beginning to end, neurodivergent individuals can see how different steps and processes contribute to the overall result. This can help them develop a deeper understanding of the material and can enhance their overall learning experience.
Knowledge and Skills Gaps
Project-based learning levels the playing field for neurodivergent individuals by focusing on individual strengths and interests. In a project-based learning environment, students can work on tasks that align with their unique abilities and interests, allowing them to display their skills and knowledge in ways that may not be possible in a traditional classroom setting. This can help to boost the confidence and self-esteem of neurodivergent students, while also allowing them to demonstrate their capabilities without comparison to their neurotypical peers.
Project-based learning also encourages collaboration and teamwork, which can be beneficial for all students, including neurodivergent individuals. Working on a project with peers allows students to learn from each other, share ideas, and build relationships that can help support their learning and development. This collaborative approach can help to break down barriers between neurodivergent individuals and their neurotypical peers, fostering a sense of inclusion and understanding in the classroom. By providing a more individualized and accommodating learning environment, project-based learning can help to address perceived knowledge and skills gaps for neurodivergent students, allowing each learner to reach their full potential.
Meaningful Goals
Project-based learning can boost motivation to learn by making learning more relevant and engaging to neuro-diverse learners. When students are given the opportunity to work towards a tangible goal, such as presenting a hands-on research project or designing a solution to a real-world problem, they are more likely to feel accomplished in their work, which can be a powerful motivator.
As stated before, project-based learning encourages collaboration and teamwork. Working together with peers to solve problems and complete projects can foster shared purpose, making the learning experience more enjoyable and rewarding. This is particularly important for learners that struggle with social situations.
By focusing on completing hands-on projects and accomplishing real-world tasks, students can see the direct impact of their efforts and feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work. Collaboration and teamwork can further increase motivation by fostering a sense of shared purpose and camaraderie. Project-based learning can help students to care about topics and understand the importance of achieving meaningful goals.
References:
Edutopia. (2019). Project-based Learning Improves Student Performance. Retrieved from: https://www.edutopia.org/article/project-based-learning-improves-student-performance
Krajcik, J., Blumenfeld, P. C., Marx, R. W., & Soloway, E. (2006). A collaborative model for helping high school students learn science through project-based instruction. School Science and Mathematics, 106(4), 185-197.
The Strong Brain YouTube channel. (2021, October 5). Super Intelligence: Memory Music, Improve Focus & Concentration With Binaural Beats, Study Music [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/6JrjiSRhPEk?si=4DfMNsXAX_ISk1rP
Keller, J., & Deimann, M. (2018). Motivation, volition, and performance. In R. Reiser & J. Dempsey (Eds.), Trends and issues in instructional design and technology (4th ed.). Pearson.
Belief in Succeeding
Project-based learning (PBL) helps learners develop a strong belief in their own success, particularly for those who are neurodivergent and may not thrive in traditional classrooms. In the case study, PBL facilitates structuring the classroom environment with an emphasis on achieving realistic objectives for neurodivergent students, such as solving multi-step practical problems. Through this method, students receive positive feedback for their efforts, which helps them build confidence in themselves. Condliffe (2017) reviewed how PBL enhances self-directed learning by placing the project at the center of teaching and learning. This approach encourages students, especially those let down by traditional learning structures, by fostering a belief that they can succeed. The Libyan case study demonstrated that constructive project-based activities…
Introduction
As our understanding of neurodivergence evolves, educators face the challenge of adapting assignments and activities to better engage neurodivergent students. This case study explores the potential of project-based learning as an effective teaching method for neurodivergent individuals. One of the key insights from the study is that "one of the key benefits of project-based learning for neurodivergent individuals is the opportunity to see a tangible result at the end of a project." This paper discusses the implications of this approach in a real classroom setting and examines the impact of project-based learning on student engagement, behavior, and overall well-being.
Implementation of Project-Based Learning
Recently, I had the opportunity to implement project-based learning in my Social Studies classroom, where I…
Principle 1: Ownership into Motivation
One of the motivational strategies described by Keller & Deimann (2018) is motivation is increased when learners have the perspective that they are able to succeed in completing the presented task (p. 81). This principle is included as Spencer (2019) emphasizes that ownership in project-based learning drives curiosity, resilience, and wonder. Taking ownership of their learning through this method also requires students to sit in the driver's seat to explore new ideas, test hypotheses, and employ their own volitional efforts to keep their learning moving forward. These open-ended projects also allow students to tap into areas of interest and provide freedom to represent their learning in unique ways that may not be possible in traditional…
Motivation to Learn through Perceived Mastery
Project-based learning (PBL) is a transformative approach for neurodivergent individuals, offering them a structured yet flexible environment to master skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional classrooms, which can feel overwhelming with their structured assessments, PBL allows neurodivergent learners to actively engage in real-world scenarios. By immersing themselves in comprehensive projects from conception to completion, students gain a profound understanding of concepts and skills. This immersive experience not only enhances their self-confidence but also ignites intrinsic motivation as they witness tangible progress and mastery in their learning journey.
The beauty of PBL lies in its ability to cater to diverse learning styles and preferences. Neurodivergent students often excel when given the opportunity to apply their…
Motivation to learn is promoted when the knowledge to be learned is perceived to be meaningfully related to one's goals.
This instructional Designer used project-based learning to motivate learning by setting an end goal for the student to achieve while working on a project with their peers. The concept incorporated states that students can find relevance in their goals beyond just perceiving them as useful, meaning that students will achieve a goal once they can see the value of the lesson as it pertains to their real-world scenarios. Project-Based learning provides learners the opportunity to see how what they are learning equips them with the tools to solve real world problems. Creating a sense of challenge and providing individuals autonomy…