Instructional strategies employing complex problem-solving examine how learners represent the problem space and argue for decisions. Unlike problems with few solutions (e.g., multiple choices), instructors struggle to evaluate solutions to ill-structured problems quickly and consistently across students. This prevents instructors to provide timely…

This study examines the attitudes and opinions of 161 students, future primary school teachers, in Romania towards mathematical word problems during the 2023-2024 academic year. The investigation aimed at identifying their views on the importance, utility, and challenges of word problems. The results indicate that most students recognize the…

This study explores the integration of culturally responsive mathematical modeling (CRMM) in primary grades to promote racial justice and critical consciousness. The research focuses on how CRMM can support problem-based learning (PBL) by engaging students in analyzing real-world issues through mathematics. CRMM leverages students' cultural…

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an instructional approach that challenges students to think critically and work cooperatively in groups to seek solutions to real-world problems. These problems serve as cognitive stimulus to arouse students' curiosity and initiate learning of disciplinary subject content matter. Authentic assessment modes play a…

This case study aimed to investigate teachers' reflections on the transfer of makerspace activities into classrooms. Primary and secondary STEM teachers participated in a Continuous Professional Development programme about makerspaces. Data were collected in the form of written reflections and semi-structured interviews after the teachers…

The purpose of this study was to explore how teachers at a southwestern secondary private charter school utilize the on-campus fabrication lab to promote the implementation of problem-based learning (PBL). Guided by the theory of constructivism, I qualitatively explored the processes teachers engage in when implementing a PBL lesson using a…

The pre-service teacher followed in this paper aimed to act as an agent of change during a time of reform in Irish secondary mathematics education. A teacher-researcher led action research project was conducted to depict the reality of the situation regarding the implementation of mathematical problem solving from a variety of perspectives-namely…

Almost fifty years ago, Barrows (1986) claimed that problem-based learning (PBL) was broad enough that a single methodological description was not possible. It has only grown more complex since. In addition to meaningful variations of PBL, there are several related problem-centered pedagogies, such as case-based learning, project-based learning,…

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an instructional method that can show erosions and failures throughout its implementation. Faculty development programs reinforcing PBL principles are essential to keep tutorial groups functioning properly. Quasi-experimental study carried out in a medical school, with a PBL curriculum. The institution has launched…

Background: In responding to the global problems facing humankind, there is great value in equipping science and engineering students with skills to function well in multidisciplinary teams. Little attention has been paid into the factors that influence multidisciplinary collaboration and teamwork of science and engineering students. Purpose: This…

Background: The healthcare and educational sectors in Africa are confronted with distinct challenges, such as an increasing population, a lack of adequately trained medical personnel, and insufficient educational resources. In this context, current medical education approaches may not be adequately preparing graduates to address these complex…

In this paper we examine how facilitators' prior experiences as mathematics teachers frame their work when facilitating a practice-based professional development (PD) for the first time. We focus on the experiences of a novice facilitator of StoryCircles, a professional learning process in which teachers collectively script and visualize a…

This research was informed by a constructivist approach to learning, with a focus on answering the research question: what skills can science teachers promote and encourage among students through designing and implementing problem-based learning in their classrooms? The research was carried out in a co-education secondary school in England and…

PBL tutors in medical schools worldwide are a diverse population of faculty (subject-expertise, employment status and tutoring experience). Tutors often receive a common initial training program followed by structured support. This study aims to understand tutor motivation, challenges and support needed, the relationship between them, and whether…

Employers increasingly desire new graduates to work across boundaries, in teams, and with developed soft skills, especially in public affairs. Likewise, students increasingly seek academic experiences for learning, practicing, and honing transferable, competency-based skills. This suggests instructors should explore alternative pedagogy engaging…