The STEM High School Program:

Practical Application of a PBL Framework in a Traditional Secondary School Context

Presented at the STEM 2021 Virtual Conference, July 5-9, Hosted by UBC, Vancouver Canada

Research supports the effectiveness of deep inquiry frameworks like project-based learning (PBL) in achieving important improvements in student outcomes. The new British Columbia K-12 curriculum is based in deep inquiry but there are few examples of its practical application. STEM High School is a test case of successful PBL programming for grades 8-12 that exists within a traditional high school setting. This presentation aims to share what inquiry and PBL looks like when theory meets the realities of the classroom and typical school structures. The specific aim of this showcase is to highlight strategies and lessons learned in the development of a highly stable and successful PBL model. Participants will be better able to navigate the implementation of their own inquiry and PBL programming. Specifically we will discuss and share resources for PBL program architecture, designing projects, and student assessment.