Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is an increasingly popular interdisciplinary pedagogy. In this chapter, we discuss its roots, benefits, and potential trade-offs and give practical advice applicable to a variety of academic disciplines.

In problem-based learning (PBL), students working in collaborative groups learn by resolving complex, realistic problems under the guidance of faculty. There is some evidence of PBL effectiveness in medical school settings where it began, and there are numerous accounts of PBL implementation in various undergraduate contexts, replete with…

This article discusses how the author used an integrated course design model to create new learning activities in her course on federal taxation. The shoebox case--a simulation where students are given realistic documents to use in preparing a tax return--gave her students an opportunity to construct new knowledge. This activity supported the…

Suggests that as professors contemplate designing and implementing problem-based learning, they are likely to encounter many obstacles that may persuade them to abandon their efforts. To help alleviate these problems, this article provides insights into how professors overcome these obstacles. (SWM)

Suggests that the design of a Agood@ problem is imperative if problem-based learning is to be educationally productive. The article further suggests that in designing a good problem, professors should consider their problem around numerous characteristics that will likely promote critical thinking among students. (SWM)

Asserts that attempting to use problem-based learning for the first time can be daunting and unsettling for many professors. The article further asserts that these professors may benefit from the experiences of a professor as he tackeled the issues of designing and implementing problem-based learning. (SWM)

Suggests that when students are working in the field, the problems that they face are no longer limited by the artificiality of classrooms. This article also asserts that problems in the field are often large and ill-structured and that professors should have a repertoire of strategies for helping students analyzing and solving problems. (SWM)

Asserts that the processes of becoming educated and developing problem-solving skills are parallel and related. The article further asserts that professors must engage students in problem-based learning because to ignore problem-solving skills is to undermine the academy's responsibility to develop educated individuals. (SWM)

Defines heuristics as cognitive "rules of thumb" that can help problem solvers work more efficiently and effectively. Professors can use a heuristic model of problem solving to guide students in all disciplines through the steps of problem-solving. (SWM)

Suggests that facilitating effective collaboration among students requires more than urging students to work together well. This article further suggests that professors should carefully consider their method of forming groups and their process of training students to work effectively within groups. (SWM)

Suggests that professors may want to help students think carefully about their own thinking. This article offers a practical approach that professors can use to help individual students and students within classrooms think metacognitively about their problem-solving efforts. (SWM)

Using the metaphor of "design studios," this article offers an example of how a professor implemented a problem-solving-through-design model. Based on this example, professors can redistribute resources and reconsider the role of both students and professors to support "design" as a method of problem solving. (SWM)

Presents assessment methods for professors implementing problem-based learning in their classrooms. Included methods are a self- and peer-assessment models as well as rubrics for designing assessment methods. (SWM)

Asserts that within the context of problem-based learning environments, professors can encourage students to use computers as problem-solving tools. The ten-step Integrating Technology for InQuiry (NteQ) model guides professors through the process of integrating computers into problem-based learning activities. (SWM)

We now have pedagogical methods that can be successful--that is, effective--with most students at the undergraduate stage; one very promising method is problem-based or inquiry-based learning. (Contains 4 notes.)