Search

Project-based learning (PBL) is well known for engaging students enthusiastically and for supporting strong experiential learning. Less well known is that rigorous PBL also excels at fostering rich civic engagement--of key importance now, at a time of heightened concern about civics education. In this article, the authors will illuminate how project-based learning can be both engaging and instructive by spotlighting the experiences of students in a rigorous PBL course and sharing lessons learned by a veteran PBL teacher. The authors also outline the need for more rigorous PBL in social studies classrooms.

The article offers information on project-based learning (PBL) strategies for Advanced Placement classes on U.S. government and politics. Topics discussed include leveraging political simulations in a high school government course by the Knowledge in Action project; helping students engage with the structures and functions of government and politics; and opportunities for critique and revision of legal questioning and argument.