Problem-Based Learning (PBL)

Posted on by Nattasit Dancholvichit

PURPOSE

To engage students in complex, authentic problems that allow them to put theoretical concepts into practice. 

DESCRIPTION

PBL-type tasks are designed to support students in seeking deeper conceptual understanding, make connections to previous course material, and justify their problem-solving decisions. 

UNDERLYING EDUCATIONAL THEORIES

PBL, collaborative learning, ill-structured tasks 

PEDAGOGICAL BENEFITS 

  • PBL supports the development of critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities by moving students to tackle complex, real-world scenarios in which they devise ways to apply theoretical concepts in practice. 
  • PBL can present open-ended problems that can promote students’ creativity and encourage them to justify their decisions. 
  • PBL supports team/collaborative formats, which is useful for developing real-world problem-solving skills as well as social skills. 

STRATEGIES FOR IMPLEMENTATION

(adapted from CITL) 

  1. In devising a lesson plan, identify the central concept(s) of the lecture. 
  2. Identify a real-world context in which the concept(s) can be situated. Consider consulting ill-structured task design to create an open-ended prompt that provides students with space to design their own solutions. 
  3. Consider whether your task will be individual or team-based. Note that PBL can provide useful opportunity for students to collaborate in groups. 
  4. Break the task into stages (e.g., introduction to the real-world context, parameters, etc.). Consider how much time each stage should take students to complete.  
  5. Identify your ideal problem outcomes. What takeaways do you want students to achieve? 
  6. Consider your method of assessment (e.g., emphasis on participation versus accuracy). 

REFERENCES AND FURTHER READING 

Fink, F. K. (2002). Problem-Based Learning in engineering education: a catalyst for regional industrial development. World Transactions on Engineering and Technology Education, 1(1), 29-32 

CITL. (2021, June 29). Problem-Based Learning. Center for Innovation in Teaching & Learning. https://citl.illinois.edu/citl-101/teaching-learning/resources/teaching-strategies/problem-based-learning-(pbl).