Problem- and Project-Based Science

Problem-based Learning (PBL) Resources

Exploring the Environment™ (ETE) is an online series, which features an integrated approach to environmental earth science through problem-based learning modules It was developed at the NASA Classroom of the Future™; at Wheeling Jesuit University. The problems in the ETE modules and activities ask students to address human activities and their impacts upon the environment. The modules and activities incorporate environmental issues such as water quality, deforestation, biodiversity, volcanoes, ozone depletion, and global climate change.

The premise of Kids as Airborne Mission Scientists (KaAMS) is to provide teachers with the tools to help facilitate student construction of knowledge in science and student application of that knowledge in authentic science-related situations, e.g., kids learning science by practicing science. This site contains carefully constructed lesson plans designed to shadow scientific inquiry as conducted by NASA scientists during airborne remote sensing missions.

Problem-based Learning in Science. Ill-Defined Encounters Are the Right Kind! Guiding problem-based learning in science classrooms.

Project-based Science Resources

Project-Based Science (PBS) is an effort that began in 1991 at the University of Michigan School of Education. The goal of the PBS group is to improve the way science classes are taught by involving students in finding solutions to authentic questions through extended inquiry, collaboration and use of technology. This site contains a great deal of background information and insights into PBS.

The Center for Learning Technologies in Urban Schools (LeTUS) have developed inquiry-driven, project-based and technology-rich middle-school science curricula in which students learn science by doing science.