This case study examines the application of problem-based learning to the teaching of introductory instructional design (ISD). Suggests that ISD is a dynamic process of problem understanding and problem solution and that ISD instruction should therefore focus more on the problem attributes and not on the generality of the systems approach model.…

An effective way to prepare teachers to facilitate problem-based learning (PBL) is group reflective practice. First the group discusses the practice of PBL facilitation. Then participants critically analyze their personal practice of facilitation in the context of PBL. (Contains 52 references.) (SK)

Reports on educational experiences with an assessment method to assess knowledge in a problem-based learning context. This progress test is a comprehensive test sampling knowledge across all content areas of medicine reflecting the end objectives of the curriculum. (MKR)

Describes a modified implementation of an instructional strategy known as problem-based learning (PBL) in an introductory cognitive neuroscience course. Discusses the principles of PBL found to be effective and demonstrates how these principles fostered continued restructuring of the course. (EV)

Presents a general approach to curriculum design in the context of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and proposes ten general steps for the process. Considers prior knowledge, skills, misconceptions, educational organization, curriculum management, and evaluation procedures. (Contains 24 references.) (Author/YDS)

Suggests that if students are to study enzyme kinetics they should do more than just gloss over the surface. Adequate time should be given for the student to thoroughly study the mechanisms to development a complete understanding. (MVL)

Evaluation of a distance learning nursing program that used problem-based learning tutorials shows it resulted in both student achievement and enjoyment. Results demonstrated the importance of well-written and accessible learning materials, realistic goals, and allowance for the learning curve of tutors. (SK)

Due to mounting pressure on higher education resources, interested staff in Australasian dental schools formeda collaborative network to support the effective implementation of problem-based learning (PBL). Cross-institutional teams sourced patient cases and developed and evaluated PBL packages intended to be adaptable for use across curricula and…

This meta-analysis investigated the influence of assessment on the reported effects of problem-based learning (PBL) by applying Sugrue's (1995) model of cognitive components of problem solving. Three levels of the knowledge structure that can be targeted by assessment of problem solving are used as the main independent variables: (a) understanding…

Specific examples are used to discuss assessment, an integral part of mathematics instruction, with problem posing and assessment of problem posing. General assessment criteria are suggested to evaluate student-generated problems in terms of their quantity, originality, and complexity.

Integration of subject areas with technology and thinking skills is a way to help teachers cope with today's overloaded curriculum and to help students see the connectedness of different curriculum areas. This study compares three authentic approaches to teaching a science unit on bird adaptations for habitat that integrate thinking skills and…

For several years a number of instructors at the University of Cincinnati have experimented with the concept of problem-based learning (PBL) in their composition courses. The concept, rooted as it is in Socratic method and the hands-on problem-solving advocated by John Dewey, is not new, and though some of its applications may call for adjustments…

GIS Live is a live, interactive, web problem-solving (WPS) program that partners Geographic Information Systems (GIS) professionals with educators to implement geospatial technologies as curriculum-learning tools. It is a collaborative effort of many government agencies, educational institutions, and professional organizations. Problem-based…

This paper presents our experiences and the challenges identified in transforming traditional lecture-based modules at a university into problem-based blended learning within a social constructivist approach. Our experiment was, among other factors, motivated by an urgent need to meet new curriculum requirements by reducing the lecturing time in a…

This article explores the use of discourse analysis and conversation analysis as an evaluation tool in problem-based learning. The basic principles of the methods are discussed and their application in analysing talk in problem-based learning considered. Findings suggest that these methods could enable an understanding of how effective…