A Guide to the Art of Crafting Engineering Problems for Problem-Based Learning (PBL)

Introduction

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a student-centred teaching and learning methodology in which the problem is the basis from where new knowledge is constructed using the prior knowledge as the foundation. PBL lies in the constructivist learning framework as its learning environment is designed and executed to be inductive and cooperative (Savery & Duffy, 1995; Mohd-Yusof, Helmi, Jamaludin, Harun, 2010). Unlike conventional transmission teaching approaches, PBL enables students to become producers, rather than consumers of knowledge. Unstructured case studies that are real or emulate real life problems would help students develop cognitive and metacognitive skills besides empowering them to become self-directed and lifelong learners. As far as the course learning outcomes in engineering are concerned, PBL would equip students with essential technical skills before entering the actual workplace. In this approach, particular emphases are placed on critical thinking, problem solving and team working skills.

The idea of using problems as the driving force for learning in PBL has been discussed by Duffy and Cunningham (1996), and Weiss (2003) as follows:

• •

  Deliver the intended learning outcomes. Problems are the instruments used to achieve the intended learning outcomes. Students are not left on their own without being guided during the PBL experience.

• •

  Assess learning process and the achievement of learning outcomes. Problems function as tests to assess the level of student learning, whether they were able to reach deep understanding or only at surface understanding. This will in turn provide feedback for facilitators to give support as part of formative assessment so that students may improve themselves as learners.

• •

  Provide context for learning as well as replication of professional practices. Problems provide learning contexts in which the intended learning outcomes are embedded into the problems. Applications of certain concepts, principles or procedures are required in order to solve the problems. The uniqueness of using problems is due to its portrayal of job specifications, illustration of the working scenarios, and simulation of challenges that students may face in their professional practices. Hence, students are trained to meet the needs t in the actual working environments.

• •

  Stimulate and train thinking skills. Problems serve as tools to stimulate and train thinking skills, beyond solving the problems. Problems that are designed at a certain degree of complexity have the potential to promote higher-order thinking and enhance meta-cognitive skills.

• •

  Cater for teaching and learning activities. Problems provide platforms for learning activities and activate learning process to support the design and implementation of effective learning environments. Student participation in learning activities is essential to help them develop certain skills, for instance, self-directed learning, lifelong learning, problem solving, critical thinking and communication skills.