Long a staple of STEM-based education, project-based learning is becoming a standard model across disciplines (for a primer on PBL see our PBL Explainer). Collaborative project activity, whether in or out of the classroom, gives students the tools to deepen their knowledge and apply their classroom learning to real-world issues.
Evidence shows the life-long benefits of this experiential, hands-on learning. Students involved in dynamic project activity gain lasting personal growth and enrichment, greater career satisfaction and engagement, and stronger alumni attachments.
Project-based Education for nearly 50 years
Since 1970, project-based learning has been the core of WPI’s undergraduate curriculum, known as the WPI Plan, providing students a professional and social context to apply their acquired skills and abilities.
Project-Based Learning Webinar Series
The webinar series Project-Based Learning (PBL) as a Vehicle for High-Impact Practices explores how institutions can reinvent opportunities for creating successful students by using project-based learning in service of high-impact practices.
The Power of Project-Based Learning in the First Year
In Project-Based Learning in the First Year: Beyond All Expectations, a publication released in early 2019, more than 10 WPI faculty and staff share the value of significant project-based work for first-year undergraduate students.
Project-Based Learning Podcast Series
In these two and half minute podcast segments, listeners will hear about research focused on the impact of project-based learning—for institutions, women and even when experience of the project was negative..
Proven Life-long Project Impact
WPI’s distinctive project-based educational model has been praised by the most recognized and valued resources in the academic world, as well as by those who know the benefits of a WPI education first hand — WPI students and alumni.