Evaluates the implementation of a curriculum that married a lecture-based first year program with a problem-based curriculum in the second year. Demonstrates how this unusual curricular structure was successful in improving students' perceptions of and performance in basic sciences. (Author/CCM)

Curriculum integration models include interdisciplinary, problem-based, and theme-based approaches. Successful implementation requires a shift to constructivist teaching, teacher professional development, teacher learning communities, skills to facilitate small-group and experiential learning, authentic assessment methods, and systemic reform. (SK)

Nursing students (n=131) were randomly assigned to groups; half used an educational game involving problem-based learning, half were conventionally taught. Groups switched treatments in the second term. First-term posttests showed higher scores for the game group; second-term posttests showed no differences, suggesting the impact of the game…

Premedical students evaluating a peer-evaluation grid indicated that they preferred it not be anonymous, but formative. Most recognized their behavior changed as a result of peer assessment; most had more positive attitudes toward health care. (SK)

The University of Manchester's problem-based medical education was anticipated to increase clinical-reasoning skills. Students generally approved of the change but suggested modifications. More work needed to be done to help students become self-directed learners. (SK)

Task-based learning (TBL) is a method used to develop transferable skills in radiography students. It involves developing in-depth understanding of concepts and mechanisms underlying tasks as well as capability to perform them. TBL forms the basis of clinical practice modules that contextualize knowledge. (Contains 23 references.) (SK)

Describes a four-week rotation at the State University of New York Health Science Center in Brooklyn in which medical residents are taught community health assessment using a problem-based format. They use demographic and health data to create rates they believe will help to illuminate the health status and health issues of their assigned…

Finnish eighth graders used computer control software to find creative solutions to technological problems. The learning environment encouraged problem-centered and creative approaches. More systematic teaching of programming skills before problem solving was recommended. (Contains 32 references.) (SK)

The Interactive Mathematics Program is part of a National Science Foundation effort to design a comprehensive, standards-based high school mathematics curriculum. IMP's four-year program, which replaces the traditional sequence, involves little memorization, integrates traditional material with topics such as probability and statistics, and uses…

Defines and compares project-organized learning and problem-based learning at a theoretical and practical level. Outlines differences and similarities both for institutions practicing and for institutions planning to implement some of these educational ideas. Contains 14 references. (JRH)

Describes the characteristics and aims of problem-based learning (PBL) and reports on its application in medical and engineering education at Maastricht University (the Netherlands) and the Technische Universiteit Eindhoven (the Netherlands). Analyzes differences between the medical and engineering applications. Also considers project work and…

Describes a nursing module on caring for older adults, intended to develop critical thinking and clinical skills through problem-based learning and portfolio assessment of clinical practice. (Contains 40 references.) (SK)

Describes the problem based learning (PBL) approach in medical education and discusses learning and study skills in PBL. (YDS)

Explores the performance of n=142 high schools students at the 1996 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) science test who are enrolled in a project based science (PBS) program as compared to a national sample of students. Recommends using inquiry-based approach such as PBS to implement reform in schools. (Contains 32 references.)…

Presents a summary of challenges that information and communication technologies (ICT) present third-level institutions through an examination of the pedagogical issues and solutions that arise from a move from traditional lectures to project-based teaching followed by two case studies. (Contains 13 references.) (Author/YDS)