Learning by Doing: Integrated Projects

Purpose and process

To emphasise the relationship between school and the real context of work and the business world for students, through first-hand experience. The projects are both theoretical and practical in nature and cover all the various disciplines encountered in the selected technical course. Each project is based on a theme defined according to the current situation of the local labour market and the pressing needs of national society. They are developed throughout the course using real contexts and experts from companies in the technical sectors. Through participation, students collaborate in the preparation, implementation and interpretation of technical 'curricula'.

Learning outcomes

Students can:

• Develop communication and presentation skills, increase their confidence and build a 'can do' attitude towards life, learning and career aspirations;
• Learn how to work effectively together, setting themselves and their teams challenging yet realistic goals;
• Improve their time management skills;
• Develop the competences necessary to perform effectively in their chosen employment sector - and to compete alongside local entrepreneurs;
• Apply their technical knowledge and skills in 'real' contexts to identify practical solutions to real, work-related problems.

Curricular or thematic relevance

This approach is specifically geared to enhancing technical programmes in the vocational education and training sector. Each project's aims are defined by the learning objectives of the national curriculum and the course profile.

How to organise:

Projects are intended to be built into timetabled lesson time but there is potential for using suspended timetable time for one-off activities. They are developed throughout the school year.

Assessment and evaluation approaches

Achievement in projects will relate to achievement of assessment criteria relating to the associated modules.

Volunteer involvement

Projects are intended to be enhanced for students through regular, direct contact with companies in the technical sectors. This is also an ideal means of developing close, sustainable links between the school and professionals in the technical sectors.

Additional comments

These projects are used generally at school in all the courses.

Provider country

Portugal