Problem Based Learning

Problem-based learning is an important part of any teacher’s repertoire.  However, debate continues over how frequently PBL should be used.  Some medical school programs use PBL exclusively.  Most K-12 teachers find this comprehensive approach extreme and unfeasible.  Ideally, how many times a year do you think a teacher should use PBL?

Problem-based learning is a model design that encouragers leaners to actively take on the  lead role of problem solving given a specific problem.  It encourages individual thinking and creativity among the unique needs of the participant.  Its flexibility allows for a variety of different learning levels and styles in one unit design.  Students are engaged in the steps required to solve a problem based on the problem itself.  

Personally, I believe this model is a great way to engage students with real-life scenarios  while learning the different ways and outcomes problem-solving entails.  As a middle school teacher I do believe it would be hard to teach every lesson this way, however, I do see potential for incorporating this style of teaching two-three times a year.  As a social studies teacher, there are many lessons that I teach which could incorporate this style of learning.  For instance, I am responsible for teaching about China’s growing population and believe this design would work great when discussing China’s One Child Policy.  I believe this style of learning would definitely engage my students while discussing this hard topic.  Personally, I do not believe it would be feasible to design more than three units throughout the year due to the demanding standards that we must cover in an entire year.  Yes, I know that this design can be built around state standards, however, there are many standards we focus on that do not require as much time as a problem-based learning unit would need.  Also, I believe the students need a variety of approaches of learning in the classroom.  While some would thrive off of problem-based unit, there would also be those who do not.  In order to meet the variety of learning needs in the classroom, I personally believe a teacher must design multiple types of units throughout the school year.  

I think problem-based learning would work great throughout a graduate level course.  Graduate level classes are to prepare learners for their desired major which prepares them for their job field.  For instance a medical student could definitely benefit from being presented real-life scenarios that may occur in their field one day.  This would prepare them for ways to handle like scenarios.  

Problem-based learning is a great model that encourages student’s to think outside the box and experience the steps and processes that correlate with real-world problems.