What is PBL?
PBL or problem-based learning is an instructional method that encourages learners to apply critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and content knowledge to real-world problems and issues. Instruction is more student centered and less teacher directed than in traditional classrooms.
What makes a good problem?
Authentic and messy or ill-structured, focused on real-world situations and related to curriculum objectives and important content. (link)
What are the critical elements of the problem-solving framework underlying problem based learning?
The problem should be complex enough to require that learners use a problem-solving process similar to the scientific method of inquiry. The problem should begin with learners reviewing what they know and what experiences they have that relate to the problem. The learners must work together as a team as they create a solution to the problem (link)
What are the similarities and differences between problem-based learning and project-based learning?
Projects
are often embedded in problem-based learning.
Similarities:
- Learner centered
- Learner practice skills they need for success in school and real life
- Learners work collaboratively
- Work can be assessed in a variety of ways
- Learners plan, solve problems, and make decisions throughout the process
- Teacher facilitates rather than directs
Differences:
- Problem based focuses on problem and its solutions. Project based focuses on projects and products.
- Problem based requires learners to generate many possible solutions. Project based concentrates on creating a product or project.
- Problem based involves cooperative group work. Project based learner is more likely to work autonomously.(link)
Who uses problem-based learning?
PBL is for all students and teachers of all ages. Too often it is relegated to gifted or honors students. Teachers who use a student-centered constructivist approach will be more comfortable with this instructional strategy.
Why use problem-based learning?
PBL engages students in learning. People do not solve real problems by answering multiple choice questions or filling in the blanks. PBL is one way to simulate real-world problem solving, learn content material and practice important life and school skills.
What are good assessment methods?
Teachers should use both formative and summative assessment and evaluate both individual and group work. Rubrics, learning logs and checklists can provide ongoing assessment during the project. Informal discussion, observing and questioning is another method. The final presentations and products are evaluated as group work. Self-evaluation and teacher feedback can assess individual work.
What is the teacher's role?
The teacher determines the requirements and content before the PBL starts. Once the process is underway the teacher becomes facilitator, tutor, ready to provide scaffolding and probing questions as groups progress.
What is the student's role?
The student is active and engaged in their learning. They assume responsibility for their learning as they generate questions and solutions.
Who chooses the problem?
The teacher chooses the problem and poses the initial focus question, context of the problem and the problem parameters. The students then choose areas of the problem to begin their researching.
A coaching plan for PBL (pdf)
Weblinks for PBL
http://edweb.sdsu.edu/clrit/learningtree/PBL/WhatisPBL.html
http://www.samford.edu/schools/education/pbl/pbl_index.html
http://www.mcmel.org/tech/IDwebquest.html
http://pblmm.k12.ca.us/PBLGuide/PBL&PBL.htm
http://edweb.sdsu.edu/clrit/PBL_WebQuest.html
http://score.rims.k12.ca.us/problearn.html
http://www.education-world.com/a_books/books137.shtml
http://www.cotf.edu/ete/teacher/teacherout.html
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