This study demonstrated the effectiveness of history strategy instruction that emphasized problem-solution-effect analysis and linkage of knowledge, in teaching 24 junior high students with behavior disorders. Instruction included a scripted curriculum, student note taking, construction of timelines, vocabulary definitions, and reciprocal…

A study used computer analysis to examine distribution of basic science content in the 53 cases in the problem-based medical curriculum of Rush Medical College (Illinois) and compared it to application of that content by students and faculty. The method of analysis is recommended for reviewing curricula for omissions and redundancy. (Author/MSE)

Describes the development and use of a problem-based computer management simulation called In the Center of Things (ITCOT). Used to develop instructional leadership for school principals, the system is based on direct problem solving instead of traditional classroom coursework. (GH)

A study investigated reasoning processes of medical students in schools with different curricular formats, a conventional curriculum with basic science taught before clinical training and a problem-based curriculum with basic science taught in the context of clinical problems. Strengths and weaknesses of each curriculum type emerged. (Author/MSE)

Describes a course developed at the University of Southern Queensland (Australia) that used problem-based learning within a computer-supported collaborative environment to give undergraduate nursing students practice in developing decision-making skills. The use of computer-mediated communication is also discussed. (LRW)

In an innovative urban literacy program, K-3 students create a working community, complete with a store, newspaper, post office, museum, and economic system. Using TRALE (Technology-Rich Authentic Learning Environments), teachers create meaningful instruction through authentic, problem-based learning activities using educational technology when…

Problem-based learning at the United Arab Emirates University has presented particular challenges. Students, used to a teacher-centered approach, needed more support in taking advantage of active learning and tutorial support than their Western counterparts required. Study guides have become valuable components of the curriculum. Discusses…

A self-help group approach was used to enhance medical students' cooperative skills within an elective course. The task profile envisaged included team building, cooperative information search and problem-solving skills, and providing and receiving constructive feedback. Findings suggest that training for productive cooperative learning is useful…

Examines how three students in an administrative-credential program developed collaborative problem-solving competence through participating in two problem-based learning classes. Data collected over one year indicates these classes allowed students to acquire knowledge and skills in group processes, problem solving, and course content. Later,…

Discusses gardening as an appropriate theme for problem-based learning activities that are interdisciplinary, and suggests related resources for library media specialists. Highlights include gardening in the research literature; resources from ERIC, including specific program descriptions; books; Web sites; 4-H programs; and butterfly gardens.…

Describes the design of a biochemistry course that uses problem-based learning. Provides opportunities for students to question, dispute, confirm, and disconfirm their understanding of basic concepts. Emphasizes self-correction through dialogue. Topics covered include amino acids, metabolic pathways and inherited disease, proteins, enzymes and…

Describes the development and implementation of a class on the topic of school change. The class was organized using the precepts of problem-based learning, believing that this was an effective way to reflect the reality of the environment in which school change occurs. (SLD)

Discusses the process of creating a course that aims to strengthen in students the four central components of civic learning (motivation, skills, knowledge, and values) by employing three different types of instruction (service learning, collaborative learning, and problem-based learning). Describes the course and its success in fostering civic…

Explores whether problem-based learning experiences foster a more thoughtful learning environment than other educational experiences that prospective social studies teachers encounter. Reveals that the beginning teachers viewed problem-based learning as more thoughtful and investigates whether this finding can be associated with overcoming the…

An assistant professor approaches students' unconventional research topics (like crystal healing) as ordinary research endeavors, asking students if they want their work to be credible, what academic discipline they plan to use, what research question should be asked, and what resources are necessary to understand the topic. (MLH)