Project (Problem) Based Learning CTC Spring 2019

What is PBL ? PBL is a student-centered approach in which students learn about a subject by working in groups to solve an open-ended problem. This problem is what drives the motivation and the learning.  Some questions for today’s discussion: Have you developed a course using PBL ? What tools/practices have you used ? Assessment of a PBL course ? Resources for PBL

Why use PBL ? A well-designed PBL project provides students with the opportunity to develop skills related to (Nilson 2010): Working in teams, Managing projects and holding leadership roles. Oral and written communication. Self-awareness and evaluation of group processes. Working independently. Critical thinking and analysis, Explaining concepts. Self-directed learning, Applying course content to real-world examples. Researching and information literacy. Problem solving across disciplines. Nilson, L. B. (2010). Teaching at its best: A research-based resource for college instructors (2nd ed.).  San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. 

Example of Curriculum Development in CS Teaching Computer Science through Problems, Not Solutions by Samuel B. Fee and Amanda M. Holland-Minkley, Washington & Jefferson College

1 https://www.edutopia.org/pbl-research-learning-outcomes Keys for PBL Success1 A realistic problem or project that aligns with students' skills and interests, and requires learning clearly defined content and skills. Structured group work with groups of three to four students, with diverse skill levels and interdependent roles; team rewards; and individual accountability, based on student growth. Multi-faceted assessment, with multiple opportunities for students to receive feedback and revise their work (e.g., benchmarks, reflective activities); multiple learning outcomes (e.g., problem-solving, content, collaboration); and presentations that encourage participation and signal social value (e.g. exhibitions, portfolios, performances, reports). Participation in a professional learning network, including collaborating and reflecting upon PBL experiences in the classroom with colleagues, and courses in inquiry-based teaching methods. 1 https://www.edutopia.org/pbl-research-learning-outcomes

Resources About PBL & How To Begin Implementing PBL PBL for CS courses Edutopia PBL Resources PBL Documents from Buck Institute for Education (BIE) Previously developed PBL activities can be found online through the University of Delaware’s PBL Clearinghouse of Activities. PBL Assessment PBL for CS courses Teaching Computer Science through Problems, Not Solutions by Samuel B. Fee and Amanda M. Holland-Minkley, Washington & Jefferson College Problem-Based Learning for Foundation Computer Science Courses from Basser Department of Computer Science The University of Sydney