Project-based learning in the primary level of English medium schools: practice and perception of teachers and students

Abstract

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is an internationally proven approach. This comprehensive learning approach is an inquiry based instructional model that has gained attention and appreciation by the reputed Educationist and scholars around the world. In Bangladesh, many English medium schools (EMSs) integrated PBL in their regular school curriculum alongside traditional teaching-learning practices to achieve higher level of educational standard appropriate for the development of 21st century knowledge, and skills for the students. In this regard, the aim of this qualitative study was to learn about ‘Project-Based Learning in the Primary Level of English medium Schools: Practice and Perception of Teachers and Students’. The research site and the participants were selected with purposive sampling for this study. This research explored the current practices and perception of PBL according to the three English medium schools’ five Primary teachers’ and six students’ views, thoughts, and experiences. As a result, this study found out the common natures of current Project-Based Learning practices happening in EMSs’ primary level which were- brain storming with a topic, group activity, hands-on activity, development of research skills, collaboration skills, time-management skills, analytical ability among students and teachers’ role as a guide etc. This research findings also revealed that EMSs primary school students were learning effectively with Project work and they enjoyed it. Some additional significant findings were- advantages, challenges of implementing PBL and the strategies the teachers apply to overcome it. This study found out that students were motivated to work and learn independently, they brought and shared ideas with the groupmates which made learning about a topic more joyful. Though, sometimes students were not ready to accept project work as they were very young and showed negative attitude towards working in groups. However, teachers took initiative by motivating them to work in a group, guiding them and scaffolding them with different methods wherever they needed while practicing PBL at the primary classes in the private EMSs.