Designing Project-Based Learning
March 12, 2026
This resource comes from a Spring 2026 workshop that was an opportunity to revisit PSU’s
Resource Spotlight: Cluster Learning: Project Based Learning
Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a bit more specific than just doing projects with your students. PBL is generally understood to be a pedagogical approach that facilitates learning through doing. As learners undertake a project, they learn content through the course of the project, researching as they encounter things that they need to know in order to progress in their work. PBL uses projects as a “main meal,” rather than a dessert: instead of learning content and then applying it in a project, learners engaging in PBL will cover content as they go, driving their own learning as they create, solve, build, serve, and explore.
Featured PSU Resources
Project-Based Learning and Cluster Learning
Projet-based learning is one of the three pillars of PSU’s unique Cluster Learning approach.
Project-Based Learning Reflection
In this sort reflection, PSU professor Scott Coykendall shares his experience with PBL in the classroom.
Related CoLab Resources
![thumbnail of 15in15 – STEM Engagement[60]](https://colab.plymouthcreate.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/15in15-STEM-Engagement60-pdf-400x400.jpg)
Re-engaging Students in Intro STEM Classes
September 14, 2023
A 7-week student-designed, measurement-based project reengaged students in an introductory STEM class. Hear a success
Clusterize Me
September 5, 2023
In this session, Robin explored Cluster Learning, reviewed its connections to the Habits of Mind
Exploring Team-Based Learning
February 14, 2022
Often considered a relation of project-based learning (PBL), Team-Based Learning (TBL) has a slightly different
What is Cluster Pedagogy?
August 20, 2019
Presentation by Robin DeRosa at 2019 January Jamboree Link to presentation
Project Based Learning Fast Blast
August 20, 2019
Slideshow by Brandon Haas, Elizabeth Johnson, and Robin DeRosa Link to PDF
Related Videos
ClusterizeMe
Project-Based Learning Online
Intro to Project-Based Learning
Exploring Team-Based Learning
Reading List
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LeBlanc, C. (2019, June 27). PSU at the Institute for Project Based Learning. Desert of My Real Life.
LeChasseur, K. (n.d.). PBL & High-Impact Practices in the Transition to College.
What is PBL? (n.d.). PBLWorks. Retrieved September 15, 2023.
“Doing a Project” vs. Project Based Learning. (n.d.). PBLWorks. Retrieved September 15, 2023.