Understanding Problem-based Learning
The PBL Approach
Problem-based learning can be considered to be a synthesis of several academic approaches. It is firmly rooted in constructivist learning theory, which describes learning as an active process where learners build new ideas or concepts based upon their existing knowledge. PBL emphasizes student-directed learning pathways, in which each student selects and transforms information, forms a hypothesis, and creates investigations. Constructivist thought is also evident in the PBL model of thinking. It transforms the teacher’s role from lecturer, or knowledge-holder, to that of a guide, and it conceptualizes the student as a thinker or a discoverer instead of a “blank slate” or “sponge.”
PBL is considered a derivation of the “project method” that was popular in the early twentieth century. Like the project method, PBL is not only focused on answers. Both methods provide students with an opportunity to pose questions and work out solutions and both methods provide experiential learning. However, PBL and the project method differ in that the project method is focused on the outcome or product, while the PBL method is focused on the inquiry process. An example of the project-based method might ask students to build a model of a volcano. Students would learn about volcanoes along the way, but the emphasis is on the product. In contrast, a PBL experience might begin with students asking about the effects of a volcanic eruption. Students might investigate the effects on the nearby ecosystem or they might focus on the geologic processes. Other students might look into the history of volcanoes, or even the economic impacts of an eruption. These students might construct a model volcano as an end product, but only if their individualized inquiry process leads them there.
The real-world and community relationships that exist in genuine problem-based learning reflect John Dewey’s thoughts of progressive, democratic education, and even Paulo Freiere’s reformed-based approach. PBL focuses on discussing and dissecting real-world problems and developing ways to deal with these issues as an individual, community, and society. This helps students recognize their role as citizen, while establishing education as a context in which reform and democracy can be built.
Finally, problem-based learning goes hand-in-hand with inquiry-based leaning, another approach that has gained significant support in recent years. Inquiry-based learning stresses student discovery and construction of knowledge and student experiences are considered the key to authentic learning. PBL includes every important aspect of the inquiry-based approach, but addresses student questions developed around a specific problem, instead of a more general topic.
The combination of valuable characteristics from different systems of educational thought is what makes problem-based learning so successful. Learning and instruction are transformed into an exciting and meaningful task.
