Project-Based Learning through the Eyes of Teachers and Students in Adult ESL Classrooms

Abstract

The use of projects and project-based learning has recently received much attention as a way of promoting meaning-focused communication and integrating different language skills into second and foreign language classrooms. However, perspectives on the effective implementation of projects have not been fully explored. This study examines and compares ESL teachers’ and learners’ beliefs and attitudes toward project-based learning, as well as the extent and manner of project implementation in L2 classrooms. Data were collected from 118 participants (88 students and 30 teachers) through parallel written questionnaires in closed and open-ended sections, and through individual interviews. In addition to expressing positive attitudes toward projects in language classrooms, both teachers and students highlighted several advantages this approach has over traditional approaches to language teaching. However, they also expressed differing opinions on how projects should be implemented and what aspects of project-based learning should be emphasized. The implications of the findings for the effective use of projects in L2 teaching are discussed.

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