Problem-Based Learning: An Overview
The goal of problem-based learning, often known as problem-based learning, is to help students grasp the knowledge being given on a deeper level by emphasizing projects. Compared to lower-level thinking abilities, far higher-level thinking abilities are used. Students are asked to deconstruct the provided information before creating their learning.
The project-based learning curriculum is implemented in university and school education systems to help students connect the concepts they learn in school with the actual world. Its goal is to encourage students to participate fully and take ownership of their learning.
The learners' ongoing engagement and the use of higher-order thinking abilities give problem-based learning its significance.
As a leading project-based learning provider in Bangalore at Tapas School, we strongly believe in problem-based learning methodology and differentiated learning strategies. You'll learn why in this post and what it looks like.
Why Use Problem-Based Learning?
Due to student participation, a project-based learning curriculum often has an effect that lasts a long time and helps students solidify their knowledge of the subject matter. This is not the typical situation where you study for a test and completely forget everything. Students have ongoing challenges integrating new and previously learned information because they must draw inferences from their observations of the world and their own experiences to fill in gaps in their understanding. problem-based learning often resolves the issue of practice examples since the students have the opportunity not only to put what they've been taught in class into practice but also to go further and pose questions.
A problem-based learning method is utilized at Tapas School in addition to the standard curriculum. It has been shown that this customize learning program helps students in improving their problem-solving, communication, and critical-thinking skills.
The following skills are actively urged by problem-based learning in and out of the classroom:
Group collaboration
Cooperation abilities
Study and independent research
Time management
Ability to think critically
Taking the initiative and being responsible for their learning
Connecting course content to the real world
Writing and reading skills
Written and oral communication
Expertise in managing projects
Ability to lead a team
Implications of Problem-Based Learning
The problem is provided first rather than essential content being taught and then having students use the knowledge to address problems. As a result, problem-based learning assignments might be brief or longer, taking up a whole semester. Since problem-based learning is often group-based and involves differentiated learning strategies, it is advantageous to allot specific class time to teach group work skills and let students work on their problem-based learning projects.
In general, students must
Examine and determine the problem
Dig into their prior knowledge of the topic's core concerns.
Figure out what knowledge and resources they'll need to tackle the problem.
Consider all the strategies on how to solve the problem.
Deal with the problem
Report on the findings
Problem-Based Learning Components
Learning is the main focus of the project-based learning initiative. Every student gets the chance to take part in and control their learning. Problem-based learning requires specific components to make it possible. Which are:
Essential Question
A key question fundamentally drives PBL. The teacher asks the students a critical question that doesn't always have a correct or wrong answer. The teacher splits the students into small groups after posing the key question. Self-Directed Learning
Students are encouraged by the key question to analyze and investigate the answer while working in small groups. They are greatly motivated to be in charge of learning. They strategize, investigate, create, and deconstruct information to solve the puzzle. Learning is self-directed by the students. They consult their teachers and mentors for advice when unsure of what to do.
Constant Teacher Support
On the other hand, the teacher is always there to help and direct the students. For the learners to keep moving forward on their journey until they reach the logical project conclusion, frequent evaluation and actionable feedback are necessary. This instructs and leads the students to consider further and polish their project and, if necessary, make improvements.
Group Work
Students collaborate in groups to plan, examine, and understand the subject matter. Then, they assemble the missing elements and disassemble them. They also provide peer feedback.
Culminating Project
Other supporting subjects like math, physics, and art are used to go deeper and learn more. Finally, all this researched content is presented through language, arts, theatre, etc., so the class and teacher can see it. These presentations of the final project are genuine. Every group differs in terms of investigation, understanding, and learning.
Benefits of Student-Led, Problem-Based Learning
To put students in charge of their education, customize learning program is an effective strategy.
It challenges students to be creative, imaginative, rational, and open-minded. It also provides chances for active, hands-on collaboration with others.
Using a problem-based learning curriculum as part of our comprehensive teaching approach has had several positive results:
Promote Self-Learning
Problem-based learning encourages children to take the initiative and ownership of their learning since it is a student-centered approach. As a result, they acquire abilities that will help them as adults as they are encouraged to utilize their imagination and research skills.
Encourage Intrinsic Rewards
Instead of just receiving an A on an assignment. As a result of cracking a riddle, coming up with an original solution, or producing a tangible product, students get self-respect and satisfaction.
Improve Teamwork Abilities
Students often collaborate with classmates on problem-based learning projects to find a solution. Students are tested as they develop cooperation, negotiation, compromise, and listening skills.
Develop Transferable Skills
The skills that students acquire apply to other subject areas and classrooms. They can be used in various academic fields and real-world situations, such as taking charge and problem-solving.
Highly Engaging
Students are given more initiative in a problem-based learning environment rather than being passive observers and note-takers. They need to be alert, critical thinking, and creative to address problems.
Final Verdict
As a project-based learning provider in Bangalore, Tapas School helps students to improve their interpersonal and higher-level cognitive abilities, such as those for analysis, synthesis, and critical assessment. Here, we ensure students can still embrace or modify parts of problem-based learning even if they do not entirely endorse it.
