Wondering why Project-based learning isn’t working for you or your learners?

Unlike traditional PBL (project, problem, passion, and place) discussed in educational circles for decades, Authentic Project-Learning Experiences (APLEs) focus on learner-directed inquiry and provide opportunities to solve real-world challenges while connecting learners with experts in the community. Our approach emphasizes learner agency while recognizing the vital role of teachers in project and assessment design.

Key Features of APLEs:

1. Authentic Learning: APLEs allow learners to direct their inquiry in real-life challenges as they build community-connected networks, making education immediately relevant. Students no longer passively learn to work but actively work to learn!

2. Project-based Learning Pedagogy: We coach you to design and implement APLEs that balance creativity with targeted outcomes, infuse formative assessment throughout the learning experience, and ensure meaningful engagement with mastery of Attributes, Skills, and Knowledge/Standards (ASKs).

3. Experiential Learning: Inspired by John Dewey's philosophy, APLEs create "forked-road situations" where learners face authentic challenges. Learning begins with experiences, paving the way for reflection and deeper levels of critical thinking.

4. Inclusive Approach: APLEs are tailored for all learners and applied across diverse subjects; we partner with PreK to university-level educators. Our approach extends to our professional development (in-person or virtually) as we turn educational dilemmas into APLEs for you.

APLEs and Your Curriculum

APLE's aren’t just one-and-done learning experiences. Once teachers have designed their own APLEs, it’s time to consider how they can be used throughout the scope and sequence of your curriculum to achieve the attributes and skills in your Graduate Profile. Over the years, we’ve worked with schools, districts, and statewide organizations in California, Colorado, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico to vertically align APLEs throughout their curriculum in order to ensure that Graduate Profile outcomes are achieved.

Unleash the potential of APLEs today! With the assistance of Project ARC’s cadre of project coaches, design an authentic project-learning experience and empower yourself and your learners to navigate and conquer real-world challenges connected to your content and standards. Don't wait—start your APLE journey now.