Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a teaching method in which complex real-world problems are used as the vehicle to promote student learning of concepts and principles as opposed to direct presentation of facts and concepts. In addition to course content, PBL can promote the development of critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills. It can also provide opportunities for working in groups, finding and evaluating research materials, and life-long learning (Duch et al, 2001).
The link below is a brief Teaching the Skills That Matter in Adult Education video (~ 8 mins.) that provides the steps and structure of a problem-based learning lesson in the context of a workforce preparation lesson titled “Unmet Workplace Performance”. You’ll see Lia Olson guide her multilevel ESL class through each step of the process as the students decide how to respond to an angry boss.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYdIgwiVA8M
Questions:
How do you or would you use Problem-Based Learning in your learning environment?
If you currently use Problem-Based Learning in your learning environment, what benefits do you see for your learners?
What more would you like to know about Problem-Based Learning?
For more about the Teaching the Skills That Matter in Adult Education project (TSTM), including its approaches to teaching. Visit LINCS at: https://lincs.ed.gov/state-resources/federal-initiatives/teaching-skills-matter-adult-education