Problem-based learning and educational technology: exploring new horizons

Abstract

[Abstract]: Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is an approach to education for the professions that is characterised by a focus on authentic problems likely to be faced by future professionals, organization of knowledge around problems rather than disciplines, and active learning in small groups rather than lectures. Students are motivated by the focus of PBL on problems with clear links to the target profession and the opportunities for group work appeal to the current generation of highly connected students. Thus PBL is a strong design for learning that can be supported by appropriate application of educational technology. Early applications of educational technology in PBL included the use of multimedia to present problems in ways that enhanced their authenticity, the development of software systems that supported the problem solving process, and the use of computer mediated communications to support the group interaction characteristic of PBL. Because PBL typically includes collaborative group work its use by learners working individually, whether because of separation by distance or for other reasons, presents challenges. However, by drawing on research into the operation of PBL, multimedia products capable of constructive use by individual learners have been developed using PBL as the underlying design. Students currently entering university to prepare for the professions are likely to have grown up experiencing high levels of connectivity through the Internet and mobile phones. They are also likely to have substantial experience in computer games. PBL is one learning design that can make effective use of learner connectivity to support collaborative group interaction and of 3D online environments such as Second Life to provide spaces for collaboration and presentation of authentic problems. This presentation will trace some applications of educational technology to PBL, with an emphasis on identifying how technology supports key characteristics of PBL. Particular emphasis will be given to the use of PBL as a basis for design of interactive multimedia and to the potential use of 3D online environments as venues for PBL.