Computerized Problem- Based Scenarios in Practice - A Decade of DIAGNOSIS Terry Stewart, Ray Kemp and Paul Bartrum Massey University, New Zealand

Computerized Problem-Based Scenarios in Practice – A Decade of DIAGNOSIS n Why the PBS approach? – Diagnosing a plant problem is more than just an identification of the causal agent – How could we give students practice at an holistic approach?

Computerized Problem-Based Scenarios in Practice – A Decade of DIAGNOSIS n Diagnosis for Crop Problems – Uses the “adventure game” concept. – Students must conduct interviews, tests and interpret observations. They then provide a recommendation. This is marked by a tutor – Encouraged to work within a budget. – Tracking provides customized feedback. – A “builder” allows scenarios to be created or modified by the tutor – Embedded in a course of lectures and practical classes or can be used stand-alone.

Computerized Problem-Based Scenarios in Practice – A Decade of DIAGNOSIS

n Summary – A “Problem-solving” exercise – Forces integration of knowledge – Offers an “experience” it would be difficult to arrange in any other way – Approach has wide applicability – Software is useful, but having good scenarios and using them correctly with students is what provides the learning.