Project-Based Learning

Abstract

The food processing industry in all Central Asian countries is in demand for a highly skilled labour force. However, educational systems are currently not able to fully satisfy this demand. Accordingly new demand-driven curricula following the Bologna standards were developed. Parallel, a curriculum for specialized food technicians was developed for colleges. The USPECH programme supports the implementation of the aforementioned programmes through “project-based training” for specialists, with the aim to improve the practical aspects of professional education in Central Asia. The article depicts the effectiveness of practice-oriented projects, which were introduced in such a format for the first time in the region. The planning and carrying out of such projects is explained on the basis of examples of the USPECH programme. Reference to relevant literature with a special focus on “Internet links” and “open access” publications is provided to ensure accessibility for the educationalists and the interested public. The article shall deliver an overview of project-based learning as part of modern VET training. It should serve as an easy guide for educationalists interested in the approach and its transferability to related areas.