Tutor Role in Problem Based Learning By Mohammad Osamah Ibrahim Aloughda M.B., B. Ch., M. Sc., Ph. D. (Path.), MHPE (Educ.) Professor of Pathology

Expected Goals of the Present Session Define tutor, how he differs from teacher Tutor as part of successful group learning Recognize tutor functions in small group discussions

TOPICS Tutors as educators Tutor & teachers Tutor functions in PBL The effective tutor! Groups; tutors & performances

Tutor + problem + group = PBL Background Tutor + problem + group = PBL All of the previous factors, mutually contribute to each other . Also, maintenance and progress of group functioning in PBL; is largely steered by an effective tutor .

A tutor! A university educator who leads a task-oriented group to successfully achieve the objectives of a PBL program in small groups. An effective tutor is an important factor for the success of PBL.

Tutors versus Teachers A tutor differs from a teacher as regards: 1. Giving the learning process due priority rather than to the learning content 2. Performing coaching and collaboration rather than dominance & retraction. 3. Paying due care to group dynamics 4. Being interested in promoting student development & progress

Tutor Functions in PBL Facilitating learning Encourages problem solving Promotes critical thinking Stimulates self directed learning Enhancing group interaction Guiding in use of resources Assessing the group progress

Facilitating Learning ‘1’ Starting and ending discussions Promoting problem solving & deep critical thinking Focusing attention on the relevant issues Moderating & linking the raised assumptions then reflecting on them to draw concepts and synthesize usable conclusions to set up learning issues Making sure that students stick to preset objectives Helping the group set up learning priorities Making sure that all problem items are handled

Facilitating Learning ‘2’ Intervention when necessary (standstill, dead lock or side discussions, dominant member, unpleasant arguments etc) Guiding students in case they sneak into errors overlooked by the group Asking non directive open ended questions Summarizing, connecting issues & filling gaps Help the group formulate learning issues

Tutor Functions in PBL Facilitating learning Encourages problem solving Promotes critical thinking Stimulates self directed learning Enhancing group interaction Guiding in use of resources Assessing the group progress

Enhancing group interaction Assuring physical set up of the group: etc Breaking barriers (in first meetings) Creating pleasant atmosphere Calling members with their names Assuring the participation of all members Managing conflict in opinions Emphasizing key points raised by group members Encouraging self running of the group

Guiding in use of resources Tutors guide learners to the appropriate learning resources that meet their learning needs. Encourage use of references, dictionaries, audiovisuals, internet. Expert tutor may help if requested by students to cross over a stand still

Assessing Group Progress Formative assessment of student learning achievement Giving feed back on group performance Self & peer assessment of: The learning process The problem The tutor’s role

Barriers to Tutor Role Some of the difficulties that can negatively affect the tutor role are: Related to the Tutor himself Related to students Related to the problem

Barriers to Tutor Role Some of the common barriers are: Language skills Students’ perceptions of tutor role Previous training & knowledge

Tutor Skills practiced in PBL 1. Communication skills 2. Leadership skills 3. Conflict managing skill 4. Decision making skill 5. Time management skill 6. Organizational skills

The Effective Tutor An effective tutor should be: Pleasant Skillful Facilitator of learning Convinced of PBL Available as learning resource Credible evaluator

Conclusion An effective tutor is the most crucial part in the success of PBL process The tutor role in PBL, is facilitating learning & assessing group progress Enhancement of tutor competencies reduces differences between small groups and augments performance