Problem-Based Learning
Problem-based learning, a form of project-based learning, allows teachers to develop, and students to focus, on complex, real-world problems using a case study approach. When students work in small groups to research and pose solutions to problems, both a collaborative and multifaceted environment is created. Within this environment, students can explore multiple solutions and best practices for tackling projects. Studies and meta-studies of research that has focuses on problem-based learning have found that for factual learning, problembased learning has similar impacts to traditional learning methods, but that problem-based learning does exceed traditional learning methods when skills such as critical thinking, communications, collaboration, and applying knowledge to real world situations are measured (Darling-Hammond et. al., 2008).
Design-Based Learning
Design-based learning has been shown to have the most impact in the areas of math and science (Darling-Hammond et. al., 2008). Popular design-based learning activities include robotics competitions wherein student teams design, build and then pilot their robots in a series of competitive challenges. Research has found that students who participate in learning by design projects have a more systematic understanding of a system’s parts and functions that control groups (Hmelo, Holton, & Kolodner, 2000).
Obstacles to collaborative and inquiry-based learning include a) the ability of teachers to choose activities and/or topics that benefit from differing viewpoints and lived-experiences of students, b) the need to strategically select students who will work well together and set ground rules so that all students may have the opportunity to participate, and c) encouraging multiple strategies to encourage deeper discussion and better learning for all group/team members.