Learners can benefit from project-based learning and an employer-informed curriculum, researchers from The Edge Foundation and the Royal Academy of Engineering concluded in a new report.
A two-year research project focusing on university technical colleges (UTCs) in Liverpool, Reading and Birmingham (Aston University Engineering Academy) explored the benefits of embedding these concepts in the curriculum, as well as the impact of building strong employer engagement over a sustained period.
The report highlighted that project-based learning, which requires students to work to briefs and deadlines and use skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, appears to enhance their academic learning in subjects like English or history as well as technical subjects.
Background: What is project-based learning?
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The report highlights ways in which educational settings can make the most of project-based learning, including:
Being proactive and “targeting the right employers”
- Research and understand the local economic and industrial sector to identify the companies that will fit best with the school’s project-based learning approach. Schools should continually reach out to businesses, asking how the school can support and help them become involved in curriculum design and delivery, thereby helping to meet employers’ recruitment needs in the future. Record all connections with employers systematically and ensure the senior leadership team has access to activity records.
Developing and training staff so that they share a common goal
- Fully embrace the importance of employer input into project-based learning and identify the staff member who will own the relationship and the project.
Promoting your institution and its educational approach
- Demonstrate how employers can play an integral part in developing and delivering project-based learning and, at the same time, reap rewards for their business.
Considering timetable changes
- In this way students, for example, can access a full day of uninterrupted project-based learning rather than sessions being spread across the week.
Employing key staff with industry backgrounds and connections
- This will enhance the relationships between the school and local businesses – this is a key way of developing the depth and breadth of project-based learning.
Making employer contributions clear and easy to understand
- Explain in as much detail as possible exactly what they will need to do. Allow employers to contribute at a level that suits them. Involve employers early on in any project and support them so that they know exactly what their contribution will be and when and reassure them that the school will do as much as possible to facilitate their contribution.
Celebrating successful completion of projects
- Secure students’ buy-in and full understanding that project-based learning and working with employers will enable them to gain skills and knowledge so they will ‘stand out’ in future.
