Using PBL and Engineering Design to Engage Students in

PBL: Problem/Project-based Learning Problem-based learning: Students develop a solution to a problem/issue Project-based learning: Students develop a tangible artifact Project/problem-based instruction has become popular because of its impact on student learning It is focused on experimental learning organized around the investigation/resolution of messy, holistic, and real-world problems Creates a learning environment that facilitates deeper understanding

How Does PBL Work? Using ill-structured problems to increase personal responsibility for learning Engaging students in STEM at an early age. Causing students to gather information, assess its validity, and provide evidence to support decisions. Teaching and encouraging learning transfer Treating teamwork as an important outcome

Wait for it! Students don’t need the whole subject laid out to master a challenge A step- by- step series of lessons explaining each piece of the automobile and its function prior to ever touching the car is not the best way to understand how it works or how to fix it! Much important teaching occurs after, not before, students attempt to perform – when students are ready to hear and grasp its value

Through PBL, Students Learn: Problem solving skills Self-direction skills Ability to find and use resources Critical thinking Content knowledge Performance ability Social and ethical skills Self-sufficiency Self-motivation Computer skills Leadership skills Teamwork abilities Communication skills Proactive thinking Workplace skills

Strategies for STEM Problem Solving How do your students approach a problem where the answer is unknown? What steps do you take to solve a problem? Are your students aware of heuristics used to solve complex problems?

Common Learning Heuristics: Scientific Inquiry (method) Math modeling Engineering design Studio thinking

Engineering Design A primary method used for solving STEM problems. Engineering design problems are frequently less well defined and can often be solved in a number of different ways within a set of constraints. Design problems usually start with a phrase like, “design a device that will…”

Engineering Design Design is to technology and engineering as inquiry is to science and reading and writing are to English language arts Design is the core problem solving process Design problem solving extends learning beyond the classroom

Specifically, What is the Engineering Design Loop? The Design Loop is a cognitive tool The Design Loop is a guide that helps make design problem solving a more effective learning tool for students A structure for thinking and doing- the essence of design problem solving A non-linear learning process

The Engineering Design Loop Prepares Students to: Contribute to the team Conduct/apply research Techniques for making models/prototypes Assess their own/team work Communicate team process and defend work

The Design Loop/Process Different tasks to be completed Suggested, rather than prescriptive Identify the problem Investigate Develop ideas Refine the idea Model/prototype Evaluate/assess Communicate

Example Design Loops