Is PBL Too Hard? | E245

In this episode, Ryan tackles a question that’s been floating around education circles: “Is Project Based Learning too hard?”
Spoiler: No—it’s not too hard when done the right way.

Drawing from over a decade of work in schools across the country, Ryan breaks down why some districts struggle to sustain PBL, how Magnify Learning is helping schools build internal capacity, and what it really takes to make PBL thrive long-term.

🧩 Key Takeaways

1. The Big Goal: 51 by 51
   Magnify Learning’s mission is bold: help 51% of schools implement PBL by 2051. To get there, we’re building sustainable systems—not dependency models. The goal is for schools to lead their own innovation.
2. Sustainability > One-Time Training
   Schools that succeed with PBL train both leaders and teachers simultaneously—and pair that with ongoing coaching. A three-day workshop alone won’t cut it. Without in-year coaching, teachers hit roadblocks and stall out.
3. Coaching Is the Game-Changer
   Just like students need scaffolding, teachers need ongoing support. When teachers have access to a coach, they don’t give up—they push through and grow.
4. Leadership Mindset Matters
   Allowing PBL isn’t the same as supporting it. Effective administrators create structures, adjust schedules, and celebrate success stories. Leadership teams must model reflection, collaboration, and innovation.
5. PBL Works—Everywhere
   Urban, suburban, or rural… public, private, or charter—PBL thrives when leaders commit to mindset and structure shifts. Ryan shares real examples:

• A Lexington model school whose 6th graders designed their city flag
  
  
• Florida schools leading conservation projects
  
  
• Indiana schools partnering with individuals who have intellectual disabilities
  
  

6. Integration Is Key
   PBL isn’t “one more thing.” It’s the framework that brings together SEL, literacy, evaluation systems, and career readiness. The best districts use PBL to connect existing initiatives—not replace them.

💡 Ryan’s Rant (and Reminder)

“Is PBL too hard? If you don’t support it—yes.
But if you train, coach, and structure it right—it’s the most powerful way to engage teachers and learners.”

Jump in here:

• Free resources: whatispbl.com
• Join a webinar: pblwebinar.com
• Schedule a call: callmagnify.com