How to Engage At-Risk High School Students Through Project-Based Learning (PBL)

Many teachers, parents, and certainly students would agree that the “factory model” of education is not an ideal way for most to learn. Despite criticism, not much has changed in schools nationwide for over a century.

Students sit in classrooms all day while their teachers lecture, and efforts are often more targeted at test performance than deep learning.

While the factory model has some strengths, it has massive shortcomings that impact teachers and students alike. From an evolutionary perspective, humans have been learning by doing since prehistoric times. Sitting for long periods may hinder students’ ability to focus and retain information.

With these factors in mind, I am encouraging educators to learn about the benefits of project-based learning (PBL) and community partnerships and how to incorporate them into their school’s culture.

At-Risk-Students and PBL

The traditional approach to education tends to be especially hard on students who fall into the “at-risk” category. “At-risk” generally describes students at higher risk of failing or dropping out of school. Many factors contribute to students acquiring this label, including mental illness, family history of abuse or neglect, homelessness, substance abuse, and low socioeconomic status (SES). These students are often the most difficult to engage but also have the most to gain from getting an education. At-risk students tend to have negative associations with school and a lower academic self-image. In my experience, PBL and community partnerships have been extremely useful in improving student skills, attendance, and confidence.

PBL involves students designing and carrying out projects to answer complex, open questions. Students often work in small groups on projects for several weeks. Community partnerships are relationships schools build with local professionals, businesses, and nonprofits to offer unique learning experiences that students typically wouldn’t get on a school campus.

Benefits of Project-Based Learning (PBL)

1. Highly Engaging and Interest-Driven Way of Learning

Project-based learning is inherently engaging and often tailored to students’ interests. Instead of passively receiving information, students actively participate in projects that require critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. PBL encourages students to take ownership of their learning, making the process more meaningful and enjoyable.

2. A Positive Alternative for Students Struggling in Traditional Models

For students (and teachers) who have had negative experiences in traditional classrooms, PBL can offer a refreshing change. It allows students to utilize their strengths in ways that aren’t always possible with standard tests and assignments. By focusing on hands-on learning and real-world applications, PBL can be less intimidating and more accessible for students who have struggled with more conventional approaches.

3. Standards-Aligned and Creative

Contrary to common misconceptions, project-based curricula can and should align with educational standards. Teachers should work closely with students during the design stage, ensuring that projects meet specific learning goals. This flexibility opens up a new world of possibilities for both teachers and students, creating a more dynamic and curiosity-centered classroom environment. PBL can reinvigorate teachers who may feel confined by traditional teaching methods.

4. Reduces Distractions and Increases Investment

In a world where kids are constantly bombarded by digital distractions, PBL can help students stay focused and on-task. This is great news for teachers who have basically been forced to take an unpaid second job prying students away from their phones. By working on projects that matter to them and collaborating with others, students are less likely to become distracted or feel bored in class.

#2 Benefits of Community Partnerships

1. Expand Learning Opportunities

Community partnerships are a great way to expand learning opportunities for students. For instance, a school I worked at had a variety of community partners, including professional photographers, local screen-printers, master coders, and fitness trainers. We had a long-standing partnership with a local nonprofit specializing in creating art, playgrounds, and other structures from recycled materials. This collaboration allowed students to learn practical building skills and express themselves creatively. We even linked up with a local farm. Twice a week, students had the opportunity to interact with animals, learn about sustainable farming practices, and grow their own food. These partnerships not only broadened students’ skill sets but gave them real-world experience and exposed them to new passions and interests.

2. Provide Relevance to Low SES Students

Many students from low SES backgrounds view school as a barrier to their immediate needs rather than a path to future success. These students often feel pressure to contribute financially to their families and may not see the relevance of traditional high school curricula. The experience students gain through community partnerships is something that simply cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom, where students are often isolated from the realities of the working world. Moreover, exposure to new possibilities for life after graduation is immensely important for at-risk students. These partnerships can offer students immediate value and a clearer path to economic mobility.

3. Gain Real-World Experience and Building Networks

Community partnerships provide students with valuable work experience and skills that are directly applicable to the job market. By connecting with local businesses and professionals, students can build networks that may lead to job opportunities. Many of my former students used the experience they gained through community partnerships to build unique resumes, and several of them landed jobs with these partners right after graduation.

Steps Schools Can Take to Implement PBL Programs

1. Learn More About PBL

To get started with PBL, school staff can attend educational conferences, read the literature, or hire consultants. These resources can provide valuable insights and strategies for successfully integrating PBL into your school’s curriculum.

2. Visit Successful Programs

Consider visiting other schools that have successfully implemented PBL. By observing how other educators have integrated these methods, your school can gain practical ideas and inspiration for your own programs.

3. Reach Out and ASK!

The first step in building community partnerships is reaching out and simply asking if people are willing to offer their services. Many people are more than willing—often excited—to share their time and expertise with students. Don’t hesitate to ask local businesses, nonprofits, and professionals if they want to partner with your school.

4. Create Mutually Beneficial Arrangements

Partnerships can be mutually beneficial: students gain valuable training and experience, while businesses and nonprofits get extra help and potential recruits. In some scenarios, community partners and schools can apply for grant funding to bring career-prep programs to fruition.

5. Start Small

You don’t need to overhaul your entire school overnight. Start by introducing PBL on a small scale—perhaps with one teacher or by offering a few project-based opportunities throughout the year. Find one community partner and offer small, low-commitment projects, such as guest speakers, workshops, or short-term job-shadows or internships. Gradually expand as you gain experience and confidence in the process.

Resources 

PBLWorks

How human evolution has made us great at learning by doing / Medium

The Positive Impact of Project-Based Learning on Attendance of an Economically Disadvantaged Student Population: A Multiyear Study

Debunking 5 Myths About Project-Based Learning

What does the research say about project-based learning?