Aren't They the Same??

I can't remember when but I'm sure that sometime this past year during a staff meeting we discussed "Something" Based Learning. I do remember that it led to an impromptu discussion at my table about 3 types of Learning. Inquiry, Project, and Problem based learning. It took quite a while to sort them out. Especially if you are asked out of the blue. I do remember that we eventually found some definitions that made sense to us. However an early question in the conversation of 'Aren't they basically the same?" was valid. I recall that we concluded that all the types of learning are reality based. No made up questions. It is an important point and does indeed tie the 3 together. But how are they different?

According to Wikipedia;

Inquiry Based - starts with a question or scenario

Students can follow this path:
Create questions of their own
Obtain supporting evidence to answer the question(s)
Explain the evidence collected
Connect the explanation to the knowledge obtained from the investigative process
Create an argument and justification for the explanation

e.g. in science - What is inertia?

More ideas......try here.

Project Based - involves a real world problem

is organized around an open-ended driving question or challenge.
creates a need to know essential content and skills.
requires inquiry to learn and/or create something new.
requires critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and various forms of communication
allows some degree of student voice and choice.
incorporates feedback and revision.
results in a publicly presented product or performance

e.g. What would be a good design for the new school playground?

More ideas.....try here.

Problem Based - students develop flexible knowledge, effective problem solving skills, self-directed learning, effective collaboration skills and intrinsic motivation. Problem-based learning is a style of active learning.

e.g. What are the causes and effects of water pollution?

More ideas.....try here.