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About
The Project Approach
Short Description:
A method of in-depth, child-led inquiry that turns curiosity into collaborative, interdisciplinary learning.
About
The Project Approach is a way of teaching that builds learning around projects—real investigations driven by children’s questions, interests, and discoveries. These projects can last days or weeks and often involve research, fieldwork, drawing, building, writing, and presenting.
Rather than follow a scripted curriculum, teachers observe what children are curious about, ask open-ended questions, and support them in exploring those topics deeply. Projects are not just arts-and-crafts—they integrate literacy, math, science, and social-emotional skills.
This approach gives children ownership of their learning while supporting collaboration and critical thinking. It also fosters perseverance and pride, as children see ideas grow into something meaningful.
The Project Approach is often used alongside emergent curriculum and Reggio Emilia practices.
How It Shows Up in Practice
You’ll see it in:
- Children researching bees after finding one on the playground.
- Documentation of learning through photos, quotes, and child-made displays.
- Teachers co-investigating and offering resources, not just answers.
- Classrooms filled with models, maps, stories, and shared discoveries.
References
- Katz, L. & Chard, S. (2000). Engaging Children’s Minds
- Project Approach. Official Site
- Helm, J.H. (2015). Becoming Young Thinkers
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