Enhancing Learning Effectiveness in Problem-Based Learning: Can Problem Design Help?

• In Event: Roundtable Session 73
  In Roundtable Session: New Directions in Problem-Based Learning Research

Abstract

In Problem-based Learning (PBL), conceptualizing the problem is critical step because it not only determines the effectiveness of problem solving, but also has a direct impact on the students’ learning outcomes. An individual’s construction of problem space could be influenced by how the problem is presented. Thus, problem design could play a role in affecting how students conceptualize the problem and consequently what they learn from solving the problem. This study investigated the effects of systematically designed PBL problems on the students’ conceptualization of the problems measured by their identifications of learning objectives. The study employed quantitative and qualitative methods. The results indicated a positive effect of the problem design on the students’ performance on identifying intended learning objectives.

Authors

• Woei Hung, University of North Dakota

• Sherita Jo Love, University of North Dakota

• Hongxia Fu, Arizona State University