Beyond Content: Exploring the Impact of Team Characteristics in Effective Project-Based Learning

Abstract

Project-based learning (PBL) is a pedagogy that is widely adopted for its authentic, complex and collaborative learning experience. Many studies have shown that team effectiveness (TE) plays a pivotal role in determining the success of project outcomes. Effective teams are generally characterised by shared goals, clear communication, mutual respect and a commitment to collective success. This paper aims to study the specific mechanisms and conditions that optimally enhance team performance in PBL. It highlights the importance of effective team processes and team dynamics, including appropriate deployment of decision-making and conflict resolution strategies, task assignments, team feedback and reflections, in conjunction with the cohesive integration of each member’s contribution with a growth mindset towards the development and evaluation of team competencies. Furthermore, it also explores the role of project supervisors in fostering team effectiveness through providing structured guidance, constructive feedback and appropriate resources to students. The framework of fostering a positive team culture is evaluated by four dimensions, namely Team Motivation (TM), Team Structure (TS), Team Dynamics (TD) and Team Excellence (TE). Empirical evidence inferred from their strong positive Spearman correlation ( > 0.82) confirm the proposition that team characteristics are interrelated and mutually reinforcing for the facilitation of successful PBL learning outcomes.

Save as a Favourite

Author Information
Low Bee Lee, Singapore Polytechnic, Singapore
Desmond Ng, Singapore Polytechnic, Singapore
Heng Jun Jie, Singapore Polytechnic, Singapore
Low Kang Min, Singapore Polytechnic, Singapore