1. Using PBL and Engineering Design to Engage Students in

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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?

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

8. 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…”

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

13. Example Design Loops