Project Method is the one of the Child Centered Approach and also Scientific Method

1. PROJECT METHOD
Dr. G. Jaganmohana Rao
Faculty of Education
MITE, Kohima

2. Introduction:
The base of this method lies in the philosophy of pragmatism. This
method emphasizes on building a comprehensive unit around an activity
which may be carried out in school or outside. The essence of this
method lies in the fact that a group of students do a purposeful task.
This implies the students undertake the activity in a group or
individually over a period of time. It may include a number of activities
and the end product is in the form of written report or a display.
Project method is of American origin and is an outcome of
Dewey’s philosophy or pragmatism. However, this method is developed
and advocated by Dr.Kilpatrick.

3. Definitions:
“Project is a bit of real life that has been imported into school” – Ballard
“A project is a unit of wholehearted purposeful activity carried on
preferably in its natural setting” – Dr.Kilpatrick
“A project is a problematic act carried to completion in its natural
setting”. – Stevenson.
Thus, project is a purposeful activity and planned activity which is
achieved in social, natural situations created in schools.

4. Basic principles of project method:
Psychological principles of learning
Learning by doing
Learning by living
Children learn better through association, co-operation and activity.
Psychological laws of learning
Law of readiness
Law of exercise
Law of effect

5. Steps Involved in Project Method:
Step-1: Creating the situation: The teacher creates problematic
situation in front of students while creating the appropriate situation
student’s interest and abilities should be given due importance.
Step-2: Proposing and choosing the project: while choosing a
problem teacher should stimulate discussions by making suggestions.
The proposed project should be according to the rear need of students.
The purpose of the project should be well defined and understood by
the children.
Step-3: Planning the project: for the success of the project, planning of
project is very import. The children should plan out the project under the
guidance of their teacher.

6. Step-4: Execution of the project: every child should contribute actively
in the execution of the project. It is the longest step in the project.
Step-5: Evaluation of the project: when the project is completed the
teacher and the children should evaluate it jointly discussed whether the
objectives of the project have been achieved or not.
Step-6: Recording of the project: the children maintain a complete
record of the project work. While recording the project some points like
how the project was planned, what discussion were made, how duties
were assigned, hot it was evaluate etc. should be kept in mind.

7. Merits:
 This is based on various psychological laws and principles.
 It develops self-confidence and self-discipline among the students
 It provides ample scope for training.
 It provides score for independent work and individual development.
 It promotes habits of critical thinking and encourages the students to
adopt problem-solving methods.
 This method the children are active participants in the learning task.
 This is based on principle of activity, reality, effect, and learning by
doing etc.
 It develops discovery attitude in the child.
 It provides self-motivation as the students themselves select plan and
execute the project.

8. Demerits:
• It takes more time & not economical.
• The knowledge is not acquired in a sequential and systematic manner
• It is very difficult to complete the whole syllabus by the use of this
method.
• Textbooks and instructional materials are hardly available.
• The project method does not provide necessary drill and practice for
the learners of the subject.
• The project method is uneconomical in terms of time and is not
possible to fit into the regular time table.
• Teaching is disorganized
• This method is not suitable for a fixed curriculum.

9. Role of the Teacher:
Teacher must be a friend, guide and working partner.
Teacher must have through knowledge of individual student and allot work
accordingly.
Provide democratic atmosphere.
He should learn with students and should not claim to know everything.
Some projects for mathematics: A few projects suitable for high school
mathematics are listed below
Execution of school bank.
Running stationary stores in the school.
Laying out a school garden.
Executing the activities of mathematics clubs
Collection of data regarding population, death rate, birth rate etc.

10. Conclusion:
Though project method provides a practical approach to
learning. It is difficult to follow this method for teaching
mathematics. However this method may be tried along with
formal classroom teaching without disturbing the school
timetable. This method leads to understanding and develops
the ability to apply knowledge. The teacher has to work as a
careful guide during the execution of the project.

11. Thanking
You…
Be Safe… Prepare Well… All The Best…