Examines problem-based learning and suggests advantages and disadvantages of this method of instruction. Looks at barriers to implementation and the changes in teachers' role and adjustments needed for assessment. Includes implications for family and consumer sciences educators. (Contains 27 references.) (JOW)

Reactions of 100 nursing students to a 4-week problem-based learning (PBL) activity indicated changes in their self-perceptions and relationship of learning to clinical practice. PBL promoted critical thinking, problem solving, self-directed learning, and synthesis of knowledge. (Contains 20 references.) (SK)

Investigates the transformation of a developmental mathematics curriculum from a 30-year-old, non-applied passive learner environment to a curriculum that engages students in active learning situations rich in meaningful health-related applications using problem based learning (PBL). Describes the purpose of the Fund for the Improvement of…

A problem-centered approach to training can be effective if (1) the goal is to bring about individual and organizational change; (2) the training is an integral part of company strategy; and (3) the problem is relevant to participants, current and pressing, and has corporate commitment to implementation of the solution. (SK)

This article describes the use of problem-based learning (PBL) with gifted students, in which the focus of the curriculum is "ill-structured" problems. Particular advantages of PBL with these students include effectiveness in teaching the art of problem finding and solving, active learning, higher order thinking skills, and using interdisciplinary…

Nursing education needs a new model of professional education that combines the liberal and vocational traditions--both knowing that and knowing how. Problem-based learning provides a framework for linking theory and clinical practice in a meaningful way. (SK)

Discusses the link between the theoretical principles of constructivism, the practice of instructional design, and the practice of teaching. Defines constructivism, lists three primary principles of learning and understanding, identifies eight instructional principles needed for the design of constructivist learning environments, and presents a…

Outlines a social studies lesson plan that follows the Problem Based Learning model. Provides the lesson goal, questions for students, instructions for teachers and students, instructional materials, Internet resources for student research, preparation hints for teachers, and reflective learning questions for students at the end of the project.…

Educators at the Center for Problem-Based Learning at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy examined the professional development needs of teachers of problem-based learning. Surveys of and interviews with teachers participating in partnership activities provided data on teacher role, problem-based learning's impact on students, and the…

Nursing students (n=45) using problem-based learning (PBL) strongly felt increased tension both in making the transition to PBL from traditional forms of education and in the conflict between students' desire for knowledge acquisition and the less concrete outcomes of PBL. (SK)

Discusses the problem-based learning (PBL) model, including underlying principles and the three phases of the cyclical process: (1) problem development; (2) initiation of PBL events, inquiry, and investigation; and (3) problem solution. A case study illustrates use of PBL in an educational psychology class. A table lists sample problems for…

Describes an approach to problem-based learning (PBL) in the pharmacy curriculum that utilizes electronic communications to reduce the personnel costs associated with PBL. Comparison with convention PBL found substantial reduction in personnel time. Discusses application as a supplement to didactic instruction and the method's feasibility for both…

Discusses clinical problem analysis (CPA) in medical education, an approach to solving complex clinical problems. Outlines the five step CPA model and examines the value of CPA's content-independent (methodical) approach. Argues that teaching students to use CPA will enable them to avoid common diagnostic reasoning errors and pitfalls. Compares…

Presents one of a set of five analyses that all examine the same data; the discourse of a problem-based learning group in medicine. Offers an overview of the five analyses, including how they differ. Includes a transcription of the six-minute data segment featuring a group of second-year medical students and a faculty tutor/coach discussing a…

Discusses the goal-based design concepts used to build a CD-ROM-based course for senior executives at Andersen Consulting. Topics include quality management; continuous improvement; problem-centered learning; video storytelling; feedback; multimedia learning environments; course organization; and possible future applications. (Author/LRW)