How to Use Problem-Based Learning in the Classroom

Problem-based learning involves solving problems in teams.

Teachers now implement problem-based learning (PBL) at all levels of education for various fields of study. This educational approach is intrinsically motivating because it puts students in charge of their learning. Students learn life skills, such as problem solving, self-directed learning and leadership, while educators facilitate rather than dictate. Using PBL in the classroom requires an attitude shift and a commitment to a new style of education, but the effort will be well worth it when you see your students engaged and actively learning.

Instructions

1. Plan meaningful problems for students to solve that are in line with the curriculum. PBL problems are multifaceted and open-ended to promote flexible thinking and collaborative learning. To foster motivation, base problems on realistic situations that are applicable to students' experiences.

2. Divide students into small groups and present the PBL problem. Groups usually consist of six to seven members.

3. Encourage the teams to clearly define the problem, organize their ideas and pose questions to investigate. Students can research as a team or divide research duties among individual team members. PBL often occurs in a series of stages as students share new knowledge and raise further issues to solve.

4. Scaffold learning by providing a wide range of multidisciplinary resources to stimulate discussion without revealing possible solutions. Educators can hand out written materials, give short lectures, present case descriptions and invite relevant professionals to answer questions.

5. Monitor the teams to ensure that everyone participates, works together and stays on topic. The instructor should walk around the classroom often and listen in on group discussions, spending time with teams that need the most support.

6. Model effective problem solving and critical thinking by asking for more detailed explanations, questioning arguments and commenting on others' opinions. These strategies encourage reflection and further inquiry.

7. Allow teams to demonstrate their learning. Some examples of demonstration methods include presentations, role-playing and implementing a resolution in the real world.

8. Repeat the PBL process with a new problem.

Tips & Warnings

• You can implement PBL as an entire course design or as a supplemental strategy for sections of a course.

• Consider attending a PBL workshop or sitting in on a class that already implements PBL to get a feel for how the method works.

• Use scientific experiments, newspaper articles and personal experiences as inspiration for creating good PBL problems.

• An educator may need teaching assistants to help implement PBL in large classrooms.

References

• Educational Psychology Review; "Problem-Based Learning..."; Cindy E. Hmelo-Silver; 2004 (PDF)
• Peabody Journal of Education; "Using Problem-Based Learning..."; Edwin M. Bridges, et al.; 1997 (PDF)
• Cell Biology Education; "Approaches to Cell Biology Teaching..."; Deborah Allen, et al.; 2003
• Educational Leadership; "Problem-Based Learning as Classroom Solution"; Joan M. Savoie, et al.; 1994

Resources

• "How to Use Problem-Based Learning in the Classroom"; Robert Delisle; 1997
• "The Power of Problem-Based Learning"; Barbara J. Duch, et al.; 2001
• AAHE Bulletin; "Connecting What We Know and What We Do..."; Claire H. Major; 1999 (PDF)
• ERIC Digest; "Learning to Learn: Preparing Teachers and Students..."; Karen Ngeow, et al.; 2001