Does Project-Based Learning Feel Overwhelming? AI Might Be the Key to Making It Work.

For busy educators like us, it's been a struggle to effectively implement project-based learning (PBL) while balancing standards, time constraints, and assessment requirements.

There simply aren't enough hours in the day.

But what if AI could eliminate these barriers and make PBL more accessible than ever?

In this episode, I sat down with Phil Alcock and Thom Markham, two leading innovators who are bridging the gap between AI and student-centered classrooms.

They share how AI tools are reshaping the PBL design process, freeing us to focus on what truly matters—guiding and supporting students in meaningful, inquiry-driven work. We learn:

🔹 Why AI isn’t replacing project-based learning—it’s making it easier to implement
🔹 How AI-powered tools help teachers align projects with curriculum standards in seconds
🔹 Why digital portfolios are shifting the focus from grades to real learning evidence
🔹 How co-designing with students (and AI) leads to deeper engagement and creativity

Learn how to win back your time and unleash learner engagement...

Connect with Thom: Email: thom@PBLFutureLabs.com, LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/thom-markham-ph-d-5292213/) Website (https://thommarkham.substack.com/).

Connect with Phil: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipalcock/),

Take the 12 Shifts Scorecard to identify areas for growth: www.transformschool.com/12shiftsscorecard

Phil's Bio: Phillip Alcock is a global innovator in AI in education, known for his pioneering work connecting project-based learning (PBL) with artificial intelligence. In collaboration with PBL expert Thom Markham, Phillip founded PBL Future Labs to bridge the gap between project-based learning and artificial intelligence through specialized coaching programs. Based in Acapulco, Mexico, Phillip works on various projects, from edtech to writing AI-enhanced STEM curriculum for thousands of students annually, creating no-code AI platforms, and delivering workshops and keynote speeches for Beaconhouse.

Thom's Bio: Thom Markham is a psychologist, author, speaker, educator, co-founder of PBL Future Labs and President of PBL Global, an educational organization focused on innovation and transformation through promoting inquiry-based learning, Thom offers a set of unique services that helps schools and districts envision, design, and implement a successful, sustainable plan for educating 21st century young people.

Using AI to Simplify Project-Based Learning w/ Thom and Phil

The Student-Centered Shift: Empowered International Schools and Classrooms Through Project-Based Learning