hat is problem-based learning?
Problem-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered approach in which students learn about a subject by working in groups to solve an open-ended problem.
The problem is what drives the motivation and the learning.
Rather than teaching relevant material and subsequently having students apply the knowledge to solve problems, the problem is presented first. Students generally must:
Examine and define the problem.
Explore what they already know about underlying issues related to it.
Determine what they need to learn and where they can acquire the information and tools necessary to solve the problem.
Evaluate possible ways to solve the problem.
Solve the problem.
Report on their findings.
PBL assignments can be short, or they can be more involved and take a whole semester.
PBL is often group oriented, so it is beneficial to set aside classroom time to prepare students to work in groups and to allow them to engage in their PBL project.