ERIC Number: EJ1135394
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015
Pages: 10
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2014-5349
EISSN: N/A
Post Secondary Project-Based Learning in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Ralph, Rachel A.
Journal of Technology and Science Education, v6 n1 p26-35 2015
Project-based learning (PjBL--to distinguish from problem-based learning--PBL) has become a recurrent practice in K-12 classroom environments. As PjBL has become prominent in K-12 classrooms, it has also surfaced in post-secondary institutions. The purpose of this paper is to examine the research that has studied a variety of science, technology, engineering and mathematic (STEM) subjects using PjBL in post-secondary classrooms. Fourteen articles (including qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods) were included. Two tables and two figures are included. In this paper, theoretical backgrounds and key terms were identified, followed by a literature review discussing four themes: content knowledge, interdisciplinary skills, collaboration and skill development for future education and careers. Results suggested that there is a positive connection between content knowledge learning and PjBL in collaborative settings. However, some negative perceptions arose regarding teamwork situations. Interdisciplinary skills were achieved, but quite limited in post-secondary classrooms. PjBL and STEM were perceived to be important for future education and careers. Future research needs to be completed and institutional curriculum changes informed by the results of this research need to occur to further explore interdisciplinary courses and the use of PjBL.
Descriptors: Postsecondary Education, Student Projects, Active Learning, STEM Education, Literature Reviews, Knowledge Level, Teamwork, Interdisciplinary Approach, Skill Development, Time Perspective, Performance Factors, Search Strategies
Journal of Technology and Science Education. ESEIAAT, Department of Projectes d'Enginyeria c/Colom 11, 08222 Terrassa, Spain. e-mail: info@jotse.org; e-mail: info@omniascience.com; Web site: http://www.jotse.org/index.php/jotse
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Information Analyses
Education Level: Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A