Problem Based Learning: What and how do Students Learn?

First we must define how students learn using problem solving and critical thinking techniques. We must first understand how students learn when faced with complex problems. By teaching students to solve problems using a designed based model, they are taught how to think and solve problems using real life experiences. Research states that students learn through the experience of solving problems. Through an institutional standpoint, Problem Based Learning has successfully gained instructional support for over three decades. The focus of learning is centered on developing a viable solution to define a problem. By working in groups, we find that students can collaboratively identify how to go about certain situations and what they need to do in order to solve a problem. Research shows that little has been done outside of education for Problem Based Learning since the emphasis is centered on self directed learning. Through this approach alternative assessments must be developed to understand the instructional method in which students learn collaboratively to solve problems.

Reference

Hmelo-Silver, C. (2004). Problem-Based Learning: What and How Do Students Learn? Retrieved October 24, 2010, from http://www.springerlink.com/content/j360715xw085866r/