As student-centric study modules grow popular, so do
problem-based learning techniques in academic institutions. Problem-based learning module being a subset of Project-Based Learning, can help expand the thinking capabilities of students,
especially their critical thinking skills while also helping them pick up
useful skills and knowledge in the process. Students do not just stop at what
they are being taught in a lecture format, but also question and analyze it,
which can help broaden the learning capabilities beyond the confines of what a
textbook has to offer. They naturally hone their analytic skills in the
process, which can prove to be a valuable asset even in non-academic settings
down the line. It does not come as a surprise that problem-based learning is
referred to as a 'learn to learn' methodology, as students do not learn by rote
or learn by doing, but learn so they can solve problems. This makes the
learning experience both fruitful and interesting. Since they work in groups to
solve the problem, it also promotes a collaborative and interactive learning
experience. Let's take a look at when and how PBL can be implemented.
How to implement PBL models
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5VBZvKSKU6FQAG9FCqtuHVg6SBsFKmNLyMOBrjeN9l7RRqEwqHFeWoLGfimlvNIQLUU40gQ3R7zf0fwV4TxhDWJv3m2PTxQbc-D7u_5YhPnZjrNiMZEijKJTF4ENqfCG_VhYQtrn0XV8/s320/pbl-diagram.jpg)
The answer itself is not as important as the thought-process,
questioning and learning that occur during the process, and this is the basic
premise of a problem-based learning module. Once, the problem is presented, the
students can be divided into multiple groups so they can discuss the problem
statement and brainstorm possible solutions. This is also when students
research on the subject and exchange information with their fellow-team
members, and where the actual learning occurs.
Pain points while implementing PBL techniques
No doubt, PBL techniques sound like an effective way to
teach but implementing it needs quite some work on the educator's part, as you
may have already guessed. The educator needs to understand that many variables
come into the picture in a PBL environment. One challenge that educators face
is to ensure that the problem statement touches all the learning points that
the students are expected to learn as a part of the curriculum. Also, given the
time constraints and the vast curriculum, educators may find it difficult to
implement a PBL technique in each and every concept that is being taught.
Educators may also have difficulties framing a PBL module for certain subjects
like English. Educators should evaluate if a PBL technique has more value to
offer over tradition teaching style, and if it is a good fit before they decide
when and where it can be implemented. The next step is to assist students while
they brainstorm solutions. Educators should primarily act as mediators while
implementing a PBL assignment, but they should also be able to gauge when
students need a small forward nudge when they are stuck in a tricky spot.
Classroom management is another pain point that PBL may present, depending on
the size of the class.
Many of these pain
points can be addressed in secondary school programs such as those that
incorporate innovation lab models.
Students get to participate in an exclusive program that
goes beyond the traditional curriculum, wherein they meet professionals from
the field. They work with a team to gain hands-on experience on the subject,
whether it is by designing or utilizing tools to find a solution. Since the
Design Studio focuses on STEM areas of learning, students have a holistic
learning experience by understanding how they are interlinked with each other.
This when combined with the core curriculum, can allow students to get a better
grasp of the subject with real-world experience.