Project-Based Learning at Nizhny Tagil Technological Institute of Ural Federal University

Abstract

This study describes the processes of projecting and implementation of project-based learning at Nizhniy Tagil Technological Institute of UrFU. We observe the adopted conception supposing cooperation of teachers, external and internal consultants and experts, customers and students; such cooperation is aimed at creating a unique product, service or technological advance and results (besides the product, service or technological advance) in planned and extra educational outcome. The principal goal of adoption of project-based learning at the institute is to adjust the academic departments of the institute according to the business-based model. The main idea is that “A specialists grows in a professional environment”. Such an environment should be created through organization of project activities at the institute with professionals participating as experts, consultants or customers. Representatives of the professional community will benefit due to the opportunity to “see their future workers at work”, test their adventurous ideas and implement projects with limited budget. By stimulating business activities, the institute becomes a center of much-in-demand competences, forms technological advances and favors emergence of research teams. The study presents methodical and organizational practices and the achieved results.