This article describes problem-based learning as a powerful pedagogical approach and an aligned teaching and learning system to explicitly and directly teach critical thinking skills in a broad range of disciplines. Problem-based learning is argued to be a powerful pedagogical approach as it explicitly and actively engages students in a learning…

Many teachers see major difficulties in maintaining academic standards in today's larger and more diversified classes. The problem becomes more tractable if learning outcomes are seen as more a function of students' activities than of their fixed characteristics. The teacher's job is then to organise the teaching/learning context so that all…

A graduate nursing course that integrates academic content with students' clinical experiences using problem-based learning is described and evaluated. The approach was found to be effective, stimulating, and relevant for the students. Closer monitoring of student progress and more instruction in learning strategies are recommended. (Author/MSE)