Applied Sciences, Vol. 15, Pages 12422: How e-Learning Platforms are Addressing Project-Based Learning: An Assessment of Digital Learning Tools in Primary Education

Applied Sciences doi: 10.3390/app152312422

Authors:
Dalia Baziukė
Ilona Rupšienė
Kamilė Kesylė
Aida Norvilienė

The integration of project-based learning (PBL) in primary education has proven effective in fostering students’ critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities. When implemented through eLearning platforms, PBL can be enhanced by digital environments that combine pedagogical and technological characteristics supporting interactive learning, personalization, and continuous formative assessment. This study aimed to evaluate the pedagogical-technological characteristics of e-learning platforms relevant to the implementation of PBL in Lithuanian primary education. A multi-stage Delphi study was conducted involving 22 primary school teachers experienced in applying educational technologies and project-based learning. In the initial stages, the research team developed and validated a PBL-oriented evaluation instrument, followed by an expert-based selection and in-depth assessment of eight e-learning platforms available for Lithuanian educational practice. The findings revealed substantial differences in how platforms support the main phases of the PBL process. The highest evaluations were given to LearnLab and SMART Lumio, which demonstrate a balanced integration of pedagogical and technological characteristics aligned with PBL logic, whereas content-oriented platforms such as Moodle showed limited adaptability. The final Delphi round generated expert-informed recommendations for enhancing platform design and pedagogical functionality. The study contributes to the understanding of how e-learning platforms can operationalize project-based learning principles and provides an empirically grounded framework for improving technology-enhanced PBL in primary education.

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Dalia Baziukė www.mdpi.com