Collaborative design: Where PBL and 21st century skills engage learners
Abstract: The standards-based climate currently found in schools should not be a deterrent to implementing project- and problem based learning (PBL). PBL lessons hold vast potential for fostering and reinforcing 21st century skills such as creativity and collaboration. The current study sought to investigate the intersection of 21st century learning and PBL in a collaborative design between 7-8th grade learners and undergraduate students. The specific project in this scenario asked the young designers to sketch or digitally create a pattern that would be printed on to fabric for the undergraduate designers to use in creating garments for both design partners. Results of the study indicate a successful methodology for implementing the PBL framework specifically to target development of 21st century skills.