PBL - Post Project Evaluation

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The culminating event is over, the project presentations have been presented, groups and peers have been evaluated, reflection journals are in. Is the PBL experience really over? Absolutely not. One of the most powerful forms of assessment and project evaluation is the post project reflection.

As described by the prompt above, one of the most important parts of any PBL is the post-project reflection. Reflecting on how things went will allow you to make necessary changes in order to strengthen the project the next time it is used. PBL learning is ongoing and projects are constantly evaluated and changed in order to create the best products and achieve the desired learning goals.

Who will you involve in the process?

In order for a post-project evaluation to be successful, I think there should be representation from all three major groups represented. This would mean gaining helpful feedback from teachers, students, and authentic audience participants. Having feedback from each of these areas will provide a full picture of the project from all perspectives and points of view.

What will your process look like?

For me, a post-project evaluation would include some type of assessment to be completed by all participants. This would most likely be an online evaluation of some kind. The questions on the evaluation would seek their opinion on strengths and weaknesses of the project and prompt them to provide suggestions for improvements. In order to get more in depth feedback, I would select at least one (maybe two) representatives from the three areas described above to participate in an informal interview. The interviews could be conducted one-on-one or in a group format. This would allow better communication and exchange of ideas for improvement.

Is it just a one-time assessment?

This definitely should not be a one-time assessment. An assessment of this type should take place every time the project is completed. There will always be room for improvement and no project design will ever be perfect. In addition to conducting the type of assessment at the end of the project, it might be helpful to conduct a similar type of assessment in the middle of a project to make adjustments that will give the most successful end results.