Problem Based Learning

Advantage of Problem Based Learning 1. Development of Long-Term Knowledge Retention reinforces understanding of subject matter 2. Use of Diverse Instruction Types caters for similar learning preferences 3. Continuous Engagement engages students by acting as a break from normal lessons and common exercises 4. Development of Transferable Skills real world scenarios 5. Improvement of Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills hinges on interaction and communication, hence builds team work and collaboration

Disadvantages of Problem Based Learning 1. Potentially Poorer Performance on Tests Whereas problem-based learners develop skills related to collaboration and justifying their reasoning, many tests reward fact-based learning with multiple choice and short answer questions. 2. Student Unpreparedness Participation may be hindered due to immaturity, unfamiliarity, lack of prerequisite knowledge You can partially mitigate these issues by actively monitoring the classroom and distributing helpful resources, such as guiding questions and articles to read. 

3. Teacher Unpreparedness You may have to adjust teaching habits You could concentrate on: Giving hints to help fix improper reasoning Questioning student logic and ideas in a constructive manner Distributing content for research and to reinforce new concepts Asking targeted questions to a group or the class, focusing their attention on a specific aspect of the problem

4. Time-Consuming Assessment Assessing a student’s performance throughout a problem-based learning exercise demands constant monitoring and note-taking. Factors to take into account: Completed tasks The quality of those tasks The group’s overall work and solution Communication among team members Anything you outlined on the activity’s rubric

5. Varying Degrees of Relevancy and Applicability It can be difficult to identify a tangible problem that students can solve with content they’re studying and skills they’re mastering May divert from objectives

Steps to Designing Problem Based Learning 1. Identify an Applicable Real-Life Problem 2. Determine the Overarching Purpose of the Activity 3. Create and Distribute Helpful Material 4. Set Goals and Expectations for Your Students 5. Participate 6. Have Students Present Ideas and Findings Reference: https://www.prodigygame.com/blog/advantages-disadvantages-problem-based-learning/

Dan Meyer – 3 Act Maths Link to blog http://blog.mrmeyer.com/2011/the-three-acts-of-a-mathematical- story/ Spreadsheet of tasks https://docs.google.com/a/tepuke.school.nz/spreadsheets/d/1jXSt_C oDzyDFeJimZxnhgwOVsWkTQEsfqouLWNNC6Z4/pub?output=html

3 Acts Bubble wrap Shower vs Baths You Pour, I Choose Popcorn Picker Toothpicks Meatballs