Problem-based learning (PBL) in the internet age

Session for CIT seminar led by Peter Taylor, 4 Mar 09

Preparation

Read overview of PBL (and follow links that interest you)

Read the case that we will work on in a PBL spirit for 30 minutes (but no need to follow the link at the bottom).
Make notes on the worksheet (substitute "the case" where you see "Werskey")

During the session

0. PBL in this session = cases that pose ill-defined problems. Students have to find problems and inquire into them, which moves along their (re)definition of problems. This process is enhanced by the internet, but has to be primed and fostered through coaching and probing, including coaching of students to probe each other's questioning & inquiry.
Practice, then theory
1. Generate questions for inquiry & discuss them
2. Do rapid inquiry & report back
3. Discuss the ideas and practice of PBL in the internet age.

Note on printing
To eliminate the material outside the frame if you print any of these pages, append ?f=print to the URL in the browser window, e.g., http://cct.wikispaces.com/PBLGuidedTour?f=print

Postscript

Peter's teaching, perspectives,models, & resources
Course entirely based on PBL -- follow the links on the schedule of classes to see what's happening behind the syllabus front page.

Resources/References on PBL
Greenwald, N. (2000). "Learning from Problems." The Science Teacher 67(April): 28-32.
Greenwald, N. (2000). Science in Progress: Challenges in Problem-based Learning for Secondary Schools. (email nlgreenwald@comcast.net to purchase a copy)
Hung, W., Harpole Bailey, J. and Jonassen, D.H. (2003). Exploring the tensions of problem-based learning: insights from research. New Directions for Teaching and Learning, 95, 13-23.
Lifelines Online. website: http://bioquest.org/lifelines/sitemap.html (viewed 28 May ‘06)
University of Delaware, "Problem-based learning Clearinghouse," https://chico.nss.udel.edu/Pbl/ (viewed 28 May ‘06)
University of Delaware, "Other Problem-Based Learning or Related Sites," http://www.udel.edu/pbl/others.html (viewed 28 May ‘06)
Woods, D. R. (Ed.) (1980-). PS News: A Sharing of Ideas about Problem Solving. Hamilton, Ontario: McMaster University, Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Woods, D. R. (1994). Problem-based Learning: How to Gain the Most from PBL. Waterdown, Ontario: D. R. Woods.