Assessment FOR Learning

Problem-based learning (PBL) and project-based science (PBS) are increasingly popular approaches for engaging students in scientific inquiry. Though these approaches have different origins, they are similar in practice. Both PBL and PBS are centered on authentic problems or meaningful questions that serve to organize learning and both are student-oriented and experiential. Here, Trauth-Nare and Buck describe how formative assessment can be used to support PBL and PBS to maximize student achievement.