Project-based Learning vs Problem-based Learning: Which is Better?

India has seen a rise in higher education enrollment between the years 2019-20 to 2020-21, from nearly 3.85 crores to 4.14 crores. With such a large number of learners in the country, there are various methodologies for imparting education, the primary one being PBL.

Problem-based learning and project-based learning have the acronym PBL. Yes, it can get tricky to distinguish between these pedagogies. Here’s a compact guide to understanding the difference between problem-based learning and project-based learning.

What is project-based learning?

Project-based learning involves particular tasks or assignments which lead to an end product. Project-based learning gives more importance to the final product. The concept first came up in 1918 in the works of scholars like John Dewey.

In this pedagogical approach, the learners learn by probing a question. This approach is a nurturer of active learning and student engagement. It can include a challenge or any complex problem too.

What is problem-based learning?

A problem-based approach is a student-centred approach which came in the 1960s. In this pedagogical approach, step one of learning is exposing the students to a problem.

Problem-centred approach nurtures group work or collaboration. Here the learners usually form a group for problem-solving.

The teachers present authentic questions to the students. The learners have to analyse the same to reach a conclusion. The students can also come up with follow-up questions and additional information to solve the questions.

Which one is better?

It is difficult to conclude which of the two is better since both have unique benefits. The difference between problem-based learning and project-based learning is in their duration, subject matter, content, goals etc.

In a problem-centred approach, the students share the learning outcomes. They also decide on learning goals together. Project centric approach comes with predetermined goal sets with structured teaching.

Project-based learning is multidisciplinary in nature, continuing for a longer duration. The problem-based approach focuses more on one subject and is short-lived.

Conclusion

Learner activity and interest matter more than the methodology's name to ensure optimum learning outcomes. In any classroom today, there is enough space to accommodate both project-oriented and problem-based learning.

Amity Online is a leading platform which offers an array of courses applying both the discussed methodologies. Explore Amity Online to enrol in courses across multiple disciplines, from management and IT to humanities and commerce.