Problem-based learning is a method of teaching where students are presented with a real or realistic problem, such as a case study or hypothetical situation, and use inductive reasoning to learn both information about the topic and how to think critically about it. Instead of passively listening to lectures or even being led through the Socratic method of teaching through question and answers, it encourages self-directed learning through the exploration of complex, open-ended problems where the instructors facilitate and guide rather than teach. Originally designed as semester-long endeavors for medical students, PBL can be adapted to any field as a long-term or short-term project. PBL is a form of active learning that will encourage students to think deeply and take responsibility for their learning. By closely mirroring real-world scenarios students might face, PBL can help keep them engaged and motivated.
To include problem-based learning in your course, you should start by presenting students with a realistic problem that they might encounter outside of a classroom. Do not prepare them for the specific problem, but do explain the process you will go through. As students work through the problem individually or in groups, identify gaps in their skills and knowledge either by observing students in a classroom or asking them to submit a draft. Close any knowledge gaps and give feedback and then let students apply new skills or knowledge to the problem. Finally, students should summarize what they learned to aid retention [1].
The following are examples of problem-based learning.
The following are best practices when implementing problem-based learning in your course.
[1] Barrows and Tamblyn, 1980. “Problem-Based Learning: An Approach to Medical Education.” pp. 191–192
[2] University of Illinois CITL. Problem-Based Learning (PBL).
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