Research
The BIE research library provides access to PBL-related studies and summaries of research that has been conducted.
We have collected a series of research summaries, full papers, and presentation materials. These provide evidence for PBL effectiveness and provide knowledge of effective PBL practices.
The site is organized into three main sections:
- Synthesis : summaries of research conducted across multiple sites or multiple studies.
- Outcomes : research that can range from improved attitudes to standardized test scores.
- Practices : differences in use of PBL, including tools and professional development designed to improve teaching and learning.
We are also provide some links to studies of technology use and 21st century skills.
Please use the research forum to ask questions about PBL research conducted at BIE or elsewhere, or contact our research director.
You are also encouraged to leave comments!
Experimental Study of BIE Project Based Economics Units
A study, conducted by WestEd's Regional Educational Laboratory West (REL West), addresses the following key research questions: Does PBE increase… more...
Using PBL to Teach 21st Century Skills: Findings from a Statewide Initiative in West Virginia
In 2008, the West Virginia Department of Education launched a major initiative to provide teachers with professional development in PBL.… more...
Study of Inquiry PBL and Reading Outcomes (Hong Kong)
This study of elementary students from the University of Hong Kong found that Inquiry project-based learning has positive effects on… more...
Evidence of PBL Effectiveness in Closing the Achievement Gap: Boaler (2002) Math Study
This remarkable article is full of insights about what it takes to make PBL and related reform practices work in… more...
Does PBL Work?
There is forty years of accumulated evidence that the instructional strategies and procedures that make up standards-focused Project Based Learning… more...
Meta-Analyses of PBL Outcomes
One type of PBL Outcomes research involves combining the results of many studies into one meta-analysis. The following articles from… more...
Powerful Learning: Studies Show Deep Understanding Derives from Collaborative Methods
A review of research on the most effective K-12 teaching practices from two of the coauthors of Powerful Learning: What… more...
Project Based Learning in Middle Grades Mathematics
This research summary from the National Middle School Association describes PBL as a method of instruction that can help engage… more...
Expeditionary Learning Schools: Student Achievement Impacts
Expeditionary Learning Schools has worked in 144 schools in 29 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico in the… more...
Standardized Test Outcomes: Inquiry-Based Science
Findings demonstrate that a standards-based, inquiry science curriculum can lead to standardized achievement test gains in historically underserved urban students,… more...
