Rigorous PBL by Design

Thoughtful Design Guide for Maximum PBL Impact



When problem- and project-based learning (PBL) is designed and delivered effectively, it has the potential to create confident and competent learners. Educators must know how to thoughtfully design projects that move students from surface to deep and transfer learning.



Bridge the gap between expected PBL success and real-life classroom implementation by diving deep into the design for new and existing projects. Through in-depth examples, discover how to make three shifts essential to improving PBL’s overall effect:

Clarity: Students should be clear on what they are expected to learn, where they are in the process, and what next steps they need to take to get thereChallenge: Help students move from surface to deep and transfer learningCulture: Empower them to use that knowledge to make a difference in their life and the lives of others Be the key to help students discover, deepen, and apply their learning to a world beyond them.



"This is an outstanding resource for educators, providing a practical framework for creating effective and impactful PBL experiences. We are committed to strengthening our PBL practices and we look forward to adding this valuable resource to our professional reference library."

Rachel Bergren, MSc, Director, Education and Guest Experience

The Marine Mammal Center



"Michael McDowells book provides powerful insights to ensure the conditions essential for PBL are present for increased impact on student learning. This magnificent book provides educators with practical ways to design authentic and ′ever-lasting′ learning."

Sarah Martin, Principal

Stonefields School, New Zealand