Project-based Education
Is this an evolution in how to approach education for our kids? By Lorrie Holmes
A
s Swiss psychologist, Jean Piaget, once stated, “Knowledge is a consequence of experience.” There is a lot of truth to this statement and as education continues to evolve, project-based learning (PBL) has become more recognized. In fact, many schools have actually taken on a project-based learning model in offering their students the opportunity to apply many of their core learnings to these projects as part of their curriculum. We have interviewed two leaders in our education community on project-based education—Paul Romani, Director of Pear Tree School and Owen Hann, V.P. of Operations for Steamoji—about what project based learning means to them and their students, how they go about offering such emergent programs, and what they feel the benefits are for the students who engage in these programs.
6 bcparent.ca • education issue 2023
Interview with Paul Romani, Director of Pear Tree School
BC PARENT (BCP): Can you tell us why
project-based learning is such an important approach in learning today? Paul Romani: Absolutely! While project-based learning is an important part of our approach at Pear Tree School, we take it a step further with our unique and innovative approach based on theme-based learning. BCP: What exactly does theme-based learning mean to you? Paul: By embracing theme-based learning as the foundation, we create a dynamic and immersive educational experience that captivates students’ imagination and ignites their passion for learning. Rather than just focusing on individual projects, our students delve into comprehensive themes that span across subjects, allowing them to make meaningful
connections and apply knowledge and skills to real life. BCP: This is such a wonderful way to expand upon the learning and branch it off into a deeper inquiry-based approach to every subject as they come up in the learning process! Paul: The benefits of our theme-based learning approach are multifaceted. Firstly, it promotes a deeper understanding of concepts as students explore them through multiple perspectives, fostering critical thinking and holistic learning. BCP: This is also such a great way to reach every student as they all learn so differently for so many reasons. Paul: It also empowers students to become active participants in their education, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning journey and develop a natural curiosity to seek answers independently. BCP: Can you explain how this type of learning also better prepares our students for the real world. Paul: Our theme-based learning is designed to be highly engaging and relevant to realworld scenarios. This relevancy translates into enhanced retention and application of knowledge, preparing students to face challenges beyond the classroom walls confidently. At Pear Tree School, project-based learning is an extension of our theme-based approach. Projects become an exciting and hands-on expression of the knowledge acquired during the theme exploration. Students collaborate and apply their learning to create something tangible, whether it’s a model, artwork, presentation, or solution to a realworld problem. In essence, while project-based learning has its place in education, we elevate the learning experience with theme-based learning. Our students not only engage in individual projects but also embark on an enriching journey of comprehensive themes, inspiring a lifelong love for learning and nurturing the next generation of forward-thinking change-makers.
