This paper describes an approach called opportunity centred learning that has been developed by the author and applied in the field of enterprise education. The relationship between opportunity centred learning and existing theory and practice in learning and education is outlined in comparison with problem-based learning and action learning, and…

The principles, difficulties and challenges in control education are discussed and compared to the similar problems in the teaching of mathematics and systems science in general. The difficulties of today's students to appreciate the classical teaching of engineering disciplines, which are based on rigorous and scientifically sound grounds, are…

In this article, the author describes the process of writing a problem-based learning (PBL) problem and shows how a typical end-of-chapter accounting problem can be converted to a PBL problem. PBL uses complex, real-world problems to motivate students to identify and research the concepts and principles they need to know to solve these problems.…

The computer numerical control (CNC) flatbed router is a powerful tool and a must-have piece of equipment for any technology education program in which students will produce a product--whether it involves Manufacturing, Materials Processing, or any of the vast array of Project Lead the Way courses. This article describes an activity--producing a…

Creating activities that model engineering design as it appears in industry provides great experience for technology students. Design in general creates an element with special regard to its form and function. Engineering design involves doing that, and going beyond to produce an efficient product that addresses its intended purpose. In this…

The Case-based Learning Day (CBLD) is a brief, self-contained exercise that is designed to introduce medical students and faculty to one of the methods which promotes active, self-directed learning of pre-clinical medical disciplines. The CBLD program and an evaluation of the program are described. (Author/RH)

Gives a brief historical survey of medical education and a description and discussion of the program at the Medical School at McMaster University. Problem-based learning in small group tutorials characterize much of the program. Advantages and disadvantages of the program are considered. (RH)

This paper discusses logic puzzles, often used with students in the mathematics classroom, in the context of foreign language education, highlighting them as tools for individual or class practice in a problem-based learning environment that combines challenges and entertainment. Benefits of logic puzzles in the foreign language classroom include…

Teaching methodologies, such as Problem Based Learning (PBL), have arisen in response to educational research that has found evidence that even though lecturing may be the most prevalent teaching tool it is arguably the least effective way to facilitate student learning. It is important then, for methods instructors to give preservice teachers…

Describes six key practices vital to a problem-centered instructional approach to number sense and computational strategies. Also presents actual classroom examples of strategies. (AIM)

Describes the ways in which a problem-based learning (PBL) approach to teaching precalculus can prepare students for calculus by helping students develop a conceptual understanding rather than learning through symbol manipulation and memorization. Discusses the exponential, trigonometric, polynomial, and rational function modules employed. (NB)

Undergraduates in clinical placement formed a team within a larger clinical team and attended problem-based tutorials. Data from exit interviews, surveys, and team conferences revealed discomfort with the preceptors' role, peer support among students, improved communication styles, and mutual learning between students and professionals. (SK)

Problem-based learning is a student-centered pedagogical strategy that poses real-world situations and provides resources, guidance, instruction, and opportunities for reflection. Examines problem-based learning, provides a rationale for its use in the curriculum, identifies problems inherent in designing and implementing problem-based learning,…

Describes case-based, problem-based learning (CBPBL), a student-centered approach that uses tightly focused minicases to help students demonstrate their ability to identify their information needs. Topics include the role of the instructor; uses of CBPBL; librarian as facilitator or liaison for a CBPBL session; examples of minicases for library…

Describes the benefits of teaching students using research lessons, focusing on Japan's use of research lessons to teach elementary school science. Research lessons are planned collaboratively and bring to life in a lesson a particular goal or vision of education. The paper notes how research lessons impact teachers' instruction and describes…