You’re unlikely to cry “eureka” when we say that project-based learning turns lessons into experiences. From the name of the methodology, we understand that it’s about implementing projects during learning, which means you’ll have to put your knowledge into practice.
Unfortunately, many learners today continue to spend half their time bored in class, trying to memorize dry facts. This boredom comes from a feeling of disconnect between acquired knowledge and real life. When we talk about corporate training, the situation is no better.
Project-based learning (PBL) offers learners a new way of learning — learning by doing. PBL faces students with challenges that require them to use knowledge and skills to achieve a positive result.
Highlights:
- Learn what project-based learning is.
- Learn how PBL works at every level.
- Learn why you should consider an LMS for PBL.
- Explore examples of how schools and companies are using PBL.
- Get a step-by-step plan to get started with project-based learning.
Project-based learning is also gaining popularity due to the rise of e-learning formats and custom LMSs. Such solutions simplify the adoption of this methodology for educators. For example, we can mention the project that the Raccoon Gang company implemented for the University of Southern Denmark.
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What is Project-Based Learning?
The methodology of project-based learning lies in solving real problems instead of only listening to lectures or reading text materials.
As we mentioned earlier, PBL helps students apply their problem-solving and teamwork skills.
Why PBL works:
- Boosts engagement and critical thinking
- Builds collaboration and communication skills
- Connects learning with real outcomes
At the company, we often recall the Chinese proverb: “Tell me, and I will forget. Show me, and I will remember. Let me do it, and it will be mine forever.” — BizDev Lead at Raccoon Gang
A comprehensive meta-analysis found that PB learning has a significant positive effect on academic achievement. This indicates that PBL is highly influential in improving student performance across various educational settings.
Top Examples of Project-Based Learning
PB learning brings value to classrooms and corporate training with equal benefits. Let’s look at some project-based learning examples for ourselves.
K-12: Engaging Young Minds
PBL creates for students situations in which they will be forced to use the entire set of knowledge and skills, not just specific rules from a particular paragraph in the textbook. For example:
- STEM Projects – Students build models, conduct experiments, and explore engineering challenges.
- Social Studies – Role-playing historical events, running mock trials, or creating documentaries.
- Environmental Initiatives – Researching local sustainability issues and proposing solutions.
Additional reading → Online custom e-learning solutions
Higher Education: Preparing for the Future
University students work on complex tasks that align with their future profession.
- Case Studies – Solving industry-specific challenges using research and analysis.
- Capstone Projects – Final-year projects that require students to develop and present solutions.
- Community Outreach Programs – Partnering with organizations to apply skills in real community settings.
Corporate Training: Learning by Doing
Companies use PBL to train employees with real-world tasks instead of passive learning.
- Real-World Tasks – Employees tackle projects like product development or data analysis.
- Problem-Solving Scenarios – Teams work through simulated business challenges.
- PBL in eLearning – Digital platforms offer collaborative, hands-on learning experiences.
Additional reading → Tech training solutions overview
Comparison Table: Project-Based Learning in Action
| Category | Example of project-based learning | Skills Developed | Tools Required |
| K-12 | STEM projects, Social studies simulations, Environmental initiatives | Critical thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Research | LMS, Project management tools, Digital collaboration platforms |
| Higher Education | Case studies, Capstone projects, Community outreach programs | Analytical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving | LMS, Research databases, Professional networking tools |
| Corporate Training | Real-world tasks, Problem-solving scenarios, PBL in eLearning | Decision-making, Leadership, Business Strategy, Adaptability | Corporate LMS, Workflow automation tools, Industry-specific software |
Why Consider LMS as a Way to Boost Your PBL
As we saw in the previous block, an LMS as a tool is an essential condition for obtaining the full list of benefits of project-based learning.
For project-based education in schools, universities, and corporate training, an LMS is a kind of nexus that connects learners, instructors, and project materials on a single platform.
How an LMS Supports Project-Based Learning
- Managing multiple student projects? An LMS helps assign tasks, track deadlines, and support communication channels. No more scattered emails or lost files — everything stays in one place.
- LMS platforms include useful features such as discussion boards, document sharing, and team workspaces to keep collaboration going.
- Leaderboards, badges, and interactive challenges make project-based education more fun. All these features are available in LMSs, such as Open edX.
- LMS tools measure progress and help educators and trainers see who’s excelling and who needs support.
- Need a PBL-friendly LMS? Custom features can align with specific PBL activities.
Let’s Talk About How Custom LMS Can Improve Your PBL Program. Book a call →
PBL in Action: Lessons to Learn and Plan Your Own
Let’s look at two cases where custom eLearning solutions transformed PBL education — one for a global organization and another for higher education.
Case Study: EBRD Policy Academy
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) adopted the custom learning solution for employees and stakeholders across multiple countries.
- Learning Solution: Developed e-learning modules and knowledge-sharing content in a structured digital environment.
- Content Transformation: Converted case studies, lectures, recorded discussions, and reading materials into interactive training modules.
- Enhanced Knowledge Accessibility: Now, internal staff and nationals from EBRD shareholders can access key training resources anytime.
“With this platform, we’ve made expert knowledge accessible across borders, enabling learning that directly impacts decision-making.”
Case Study: University of Southern Denmark
At the University of Southern Denmark, students needed a more innovative way to learn proper comma usage. A standard grammar course wasn’t enough because, according to the rules of using the Danish language, two equivalent approaches to writing a comma are allowed.
- Custom Learning Platform: Built education solutions for universities.
- Dynamic Content Adjustments: Course materials are adapted in real time based on the learner’s knowledge level and progress.
Practical Tips and Cost of Implementing Project-Based Learning
For successful implementation of PB learning, you should pay attention to planning, tools, and training. Every educator, administrator, and corporate trainer can follow this step-by-step guide for better results:
- Set measurable goals to track the progress and success of your students or employees.
- Look for the top LMS for your organization that supports project-based learning and other essential learning modules.
- Train educators and stakeholders on how to integrate PBL modules into their existing curriculum or corporate training programs and how to use LMS for PBL in general.
- Every journey begins with a small step. In the case of PBL implementation, consider a pilot project. Gather feedback, refine the approach, and then expand.
Average Cost of Implementing Project-Based Learning
The cost of setting up project-based learning depends on a few factors. Let’s break down them in the table below.
| Component | Description | Estimated Cost Range |
| 1. LMS Development | Building or customizing an LMS for PBL, including integrations and project tracking features. | $10,000 – $50,000 |
| 2. Custom Module Creation | Developing PBL-specific learning modules, interactive assessments, and adaptive content. | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| 3. Educator Training | Training educators and trainers on PBL methodologies, LMS usage, and student engagement strategies. | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| 4. Support & Maintenance | Ongoing platform maintenance, updates, and technical support for educators and students. | $1,000 – $5,000 per year |
Challenges and Solutions for PBL Implementation
Project-based learning professional development programs are not always implemented by leaps and bounds. Here are some essential tips to overcome the challenges that often arise:
- PBL requires time, tools, and training. Solution: Start small with a pilot program and expand as you refine your approach.
- Some learners may struggle with self-directed learning. Solution: Use an LMS with gamification, discussion boards, and feedback tools to keep motivation high.
- Measuring success in PBL can be tricky. Solution: Use LMS analytics to monitor progress, assess collaboration, and provide online feedback.
Conclusion
PBL helps people learn by doing. It builds problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking skills. Instead of memorizing, learners tackle real challenges. For instance, web development project-based learning builds practical coding and design skills.
The right tools make PBL easier. LMS in PB learning keeps projects organized and tracks progress. It also helps students stay engaged.
Setting up PBL takes planning, but the benefits last. Schools and companies using custom eLearning solutions see better results and higher engagement.
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