advantages of problem solving in education

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5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Problem-Based Learning [+ Activity Design Steps]

Written by Marcus Guido

• Teaching Strategies

• Advantages of Problem-Based Learning
• Disadvantages of Problem-Based Learning
• Steps to Designing Problem-Based Learning Activities

Used since the 1960s, many teachers express concerns about the effectiveness of problem-based learning (PBL) in certain classroom settings.

Whether you introduce the student-centred pedagogy as a one-time activity or mainstay exercise, grouping students together to solve open-ended problems can present pros and cons.

Below are five advantages and disadvantages of problem-based learning to help you determine if it can work in your classroom.

If you decide to introduce an activity, there are also design creation steps and a downloadable guide to keep at your desk for easy reference.

1. Development of Long-Term Knowledge Retention

Students who participate in problem-based learning activities can improve their abilities to retain and recall information, according to a literature review of studies about the pedagogy .

The literature review states “elaboration of knowledge at the time of learning” -- by sharing facts and ideas through discussion and answering questions -- “enhances subsequent retrieval.” This form of elaborating reinforces understanding of subject matter , making it easier to remember.

Small-group discussion can be especially beneficial -- ideally, each student will get chances to participate.

But regardless of group size, problem-based learning promotes long-term knowledge retention by encouraging students to discuss -- and answer questions about -- new concepts as they’re learning them.

2. Use of Diverse Instruction Types

You can use problem-based learning activities to the meet the diverse learning needs and styles of your students, effectively engaging a diverse classroom in the process. In general, grouping students together for problem-based learning will allow them to:

• Address real-life issues that require real-life solutions, appealing to students who struggle to grasp abstract concepts
• Participate in small-group and large-group learning, helping students who don’t excel during solo work grasp new material
• Talk about their ideas and challenge each other in a constructive manner, giving participatory learners an avenue to excel
• Tackle a problem using a range of content you provide -- such as videos, audio recordings, news articles and other applicable material -- allowing the lesson to appeal to distinct learning styles

Since running a problem-based learning scenario will give you a way to use these differentiated instruction approaches , it can be especially worthwhile if your students don’t have similar learning preferences.

3. Continuous Engagement

Providing a problem-based learning challenge can engage students by acting as a break from normal lessons and common exercises.

It’s not hard to see the potential for engagement, as kids collaborate to solve real-world problems that directly affect or heavily interest them.

Although conducted with post-secondary students, a study published by the Association for the Study of Medical Education reported increased student attendance to -- and better attitudes towards -- courses that feature problem-based learning.

These activities may lose some inherent engagement if you repeat them too often, but can certainly inject excitement into class.

4. Development of Transferable Skills

Problem-based learning can help students develop skills they can transfer to real-world scenarios, according to a 2015 book that outlines theories and characteristics of the pedagogy .

The tangible contexts and consequences presented in a problem-based learning activity “allow learning to become more profound and durable.” As you present lessons through these real-life scenarios, students should be able to apply learnings if they eventually face similar issues.

For example, if they work together to address a dispute within the school, they may develop lifelong skills related to negotiation and communicating their thoughts with others.

As long as the problem’s context applies to out-of-class scenarios, students should be able to build skills they can use again.

5. Improvement of Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills

Successful completion of a problem-based learning challenge hinges on interaction and communication, meaning students should also build transferable skills based on teamwork and collaboration . Instead of memorizing facts, they get chances to present their ideas to a group, defending and revising them when needed.

What’s more, this should help them understand a group dynamic. Depending on a given student, this can involve developing listening skills and a sense of responsibility when completing one’s tasks. Such skills and knowledge should serve your students well when they enter higher education levels and, eventually, the working world.

1. Potentially Poorer Performance on Tests

Devoting too much time to problem-based learning can cause issues when students take standardized tests, as they may not have the breadth of knowledge needed to achieve high scores. Whereas problem-based learners develop skills related to collaboration and justifying their reasoning, many tests reward fact-based learning with multiple choice and short answer questions. Despite offering many advantages, you could spot this problem develop if you run problem-based learning activities too regularly.

2. Student Unpreparedness

Problem-based learning exercises can engage many of your kids, but others may feel disengaged as a result of not being ready to handle this type of exercise for a number of reasons. On a class-by-class and activity-by-activity basis, participation may be hindered due to:

• Immaturity  -- Some students may not display enough maturity to effectively work in a group, not fulfilling expectations and distracting other students.
• Unfamiliarity  -- Some kids may struggle to grasp the concept of an open problem, since they can’t rely on you for answers.
• Lack of Prerequisite Knowledge  -- Although the activity should address a relevant and tangible problem, students may require new or abstract information to create an effective solution.

You can partially mitigate these issues by actively monitoring the classroom and distributing helpful resources, such as guiding questions and articles to read. This should keep students focused and help them overcome knowledge gaps. But if you foresee facing these challenges too frequently, you may decide to avoid or seldom introduce problem-based learning exercises.

3. Teacher Unpreparedness

If supervising a problem-based learning activity is a new experience, you may have to prepare to adjust some teaching habits . For example, overtly correcting students who make flawed assumptions or statements can prevent them from thinking through difficult concepts and questions. Similarly, you shouldn’t teach to promote the fast recall of facts. Instead, you should concentrate on:

• Giving hints to help fix improper reasoning
• Questioning student logic and ideas in a constructive manner
• Distributing content for research and to reinforce new concepts
• Asking targeted questions to a group or the class, focusing their attention on a specific aspect of the problem

Depending on your teaching style, it may take time to prepare yourself to successfully run a problem-based learning lesson.

4. Time-Consuming Assessment

If you choose to give marks, assessing a student’s performance throughout a problem-based learning exercise demands constant monitoring and note-taking. You must take factors into account such as:

• Completed tasks
• The quality of those tasks
• The group’s overall work and solution
• Communication among team members
• Anything you outlined on the activity’s rubric

Monitoring these criteria is required for each student, making it time-consuming to give and justify a mark for everyone.

5. Varying Degrees of Relevancy and Applicability

It can be difficult to identify a tangible problem that students can solve with content they’re studying and skills they’re mastering. This introduces two clear issues. First, if it is easy for students to divert from the challenge’s objectives, they may miss pertinent information. Second, you could veer off the problem’s focus and purpose as students run into unanticipated obstacles. Overcoming obstacles has benefits, but may compromise the planning you did. It can also make it hard to get back on track once the activity is complete. Because of the difficulty associated with keeping activities relevant and applicable, you may see problem-based learning as too taxing.

If the advantages outweigh the disadvantages -- or you just want to give problem-based learning a shot -- follow these steps:

1. Identify an Applicable Real-Life Problem

Find a tangible problem that’s relevant to your students, allowing them to easily contextualize it and hopefully apply it to future challenges. To identify an appropriate real-world problem, look at issues related to your:

• Students’ shared interests

You must also ensure that students understand the problem and the information around it. So, not all problems are appropriate for all grade levels.

2. Determine the Overarching Purpose of the Activity

Depending on the problem you choose, determine what you want to accomplish by running the challenge. For example, you may intend to help your students improve skills related to:

• Collaboration
• Problem-solving
• Curriculum-aligned topics
• Processing diverse content

A more precise example, you may prioritize collaboration skills by assigning specific tasks to pairs of students within each team. In doing so, students will continuously develop communication and collaboration abilities by working as a couple and part of a small group. By defining a clear purpose, you’ll also have an easier time following the next step.

3. Create and Distribute Helpful Material

Handouts and other content not only act as a set of resources, but help students stay focused on the activity and its purpose. For example, if you want them to improve a certain math skill , you should make material that highlights the mathematical aspects of the problem. You may decide to provide items such as:

• Data that helps quantify and add context to the problem
• Videos, presentations and other audio-visual material
• A list of preliminary questions to investigate

Providing a range of resources can be especially important for elementary students and struggling students in higher grades, who may not have self-direction skills to work without them.

4. Set Goals and Expectations for Your Students

Along with the aforementioned materials, give students a guide or rubric that details goals and expectations. It will allow you to further highlight the purpose of the problem-based learning exercise, as you can explain what you’re looking for in terms of collaboration, the final product and anything else. It should also help students stay on track by acting as a reference throughout the activity.

5. Participate

Although explicitly correcting students may be discouraged, you can still help them and ask questions to dig into their thought processes. When you see an opportunity, consider if it’s worthwhile to:

• Fill gaps in knowledge
• Provide hints, not answers
• Question a student’s conclusion or logic regarding a certain point, helping them think through tough spots

By participating in these ways, you can provide insight when students need it most, encouraging them to effectively analyze the problem.

6. Have Students Present Ideas and Findings

If you divided them into small groups, requiring students to present their thoughts and results in front the class adds a large-group learning component to the lesson. Encourage other students to ask questions, allowing the presenting group to elaborate and provide evidence for their thoughts. This wraps up the activity and gives your class a final chance to find solutions to the problem.

Wrapping Up

The effectiveness of problem-based learning may differ between classrooms and individual students, depending on how significant specific advantages and disadvantages are to you. Evaluative research consistently shows value in giving students a question and letting them take control of their learning. But the extent of this value can depend on the difficulties you face.It may be wise to try a problem-based learning activity, and go forward based on results.

Create or log into your teacher account on Prodigy -- an adaptive math game that adjusts content to accommodate player trouble spots and learning speeds. Aligned to US and Canadian curricula, it’s used by more than 350,000 teachers and 10 million students. It may be wise to try a problem-based learning activity, and go forward based on results.

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Benefits of Problem-Solving in the K-12 Classroom

Posted October 5, 2022 by Miranda Marshall

From solving complex algebra problems to investigating scientific theories, to making inferences about written texts, problem-solving is central to every subject explored in school. Even beyond the classroom, problem-solving is ranked among the most important skills for students to demonstrate on their resumes, with 82.9% of employers considering it a highly valued attribute. On an even broader scale, students who learn how to apply their problem-solving skills to the issues they notice in their communities – or even globally –  have the tools they need to change the future and leave a lasting impact on the world around them.

Problem-solving can be taught in any content area and can even combine cross-curricular concepts to connect learning from all subjects. On top of building transferrable skills for higher education and beyond, read on to learn more about five amazing benefits students will gain from the inclusion of problem-based learning in their education:

• Problem-solving is inherently student-centered.

Student-centered learning refers to methods of teaching that recognize and cater to students’ individual needs. Students learn at varying paces, have their own unique strengths, and even further, have their own interests and motivations – and a student-centered approach recognizes this diversity within classrooms by giving students some degree of control over their learning and making them active participants in the learning process.

Incorporating problem-solving into your curriculum is a great way to make learning more student-centered, as it requires students to engage with topics by asking questions and thinking critically about explanations and solutions, rather than expecting them to absorb information in a lecture format or through wrote memorization.

• Increases confidence and achievement across all school subjects.

As with any skill, the more students practice problem-solving, the more comfortable they become with the type of critical and analytical thinking that will carry over into other areas of their academic careers. By learning how to approach concepts they are unfamiliar with or questions they do not know the answers to, students develop a greater sense of self-confidence in their ability to apply problem-solving techniques to other subject areas, and even outside of school in their day-to-day lives.

The goal in teaching problem-solving is for it to become second nature, and for students to routinely express their curiosity, explore innovative solutions, and analyze the world around them to draw their own conclusions.

• Encourages collaboration and teamwork.

Since problem-solving often involves working cooperatively in teams, students build a number of important interpersonal skills alongside problem-solving skills. Effective teamwork requires clear communication, a sense of personal responsibility, empathy and understanding for teammates, and goal setting and organization – all of which are important throughout higher education and in the workplace as well.

• Increases metacognitive skills.

Metacognition is often described as “thinking about thinking” because it refers to a person’s ability to analyze and understand their own thought processes. When making decisions, metacognition allows problem-solvers to consider the outcomes of multiple plans of action and determine which one will yield the best results.

Higher metacognitive skills have also widely been linked to improved learning outcomes and improved studying strategies. Metacognitive students are able to reflect on their learning experiences to understand themselves and the world around them better.

• Helps with long-term knowledge retention.

Students who learn problem-solving skills may see an improved ability to retain and recall information. Specifically, being asked to explain how they reached their conclusions at the time of learning, by sharing their ideas and facts they have researched, helps reinforce their understanding of the subject matter.

Problem-solving scenarios in which students participate in small-group discussions can be especially beneficial, as this discussion gives students the opportunity to both ask and answer questions about the new concepts they’re exploring.

At all grade levels, students can see tremendous gains in their academic performance and emotional intelligence when problem-solving is thoughtfully planned into their learning.

Interested in helping your students build problem-solving skills, but aren’t sure where to start? Future Problem Solving Problem International (FPSPI) is an amazing academic competition for students of all ages, all around the world, that includes helpful resources for educators to implement in their own classrooms!

Learn more about this year’s competition season from this recorded webinar:    https://youtu.be/AbeKQ8_Sm8U and/or email [email protected] to get started!

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Importance of Problem Solving Skills in Education

Last Updated on April 22, 2023 by Uncle Pat Ugwu

An essential objective of education is to teach students how to think more productively when addressing issues by combining creative and critical thinking (to develop ideas) with precise information (about the truth of reality). According to specialists in both professions, both modes of thinking (creative and critical) are necessary for a well-rounded productive thinker. This is a great importance of problem solving skills in education.

As children grow older, they learn that not all problems have simple solutions. Whether they need to find the best solution for a project in school or navigate a situation in their personal lives, creative problem-solving skills can help prepare children to face challenges that require them to think outside the box. We previously wrote some problem solving interview questions .

Let us now highlight the importance of problem solving skills in education one after another, and the role teachers should play to help their students. This article is also good for those who want to learn problem solving methods of teaching .

Table of Contents

Importance of Problem Solving Skills

1. critical thinking.

This signifies the ability to break down a complex problem and analyzes its essential characteristics. That skill will make it simpler to find logical answers to practically any difficulty. Being able to navigate through and arrange that heap of smaller amounts of knowledge makes it easier for them to tackle difficulties. It also keeps your children from being overwhelmed when a large obstacle is placed in front of them.

By asking questions, you may encourage your students to exercise critical thinking. Open-ended inquiries, in particular, encourage students to look outside the box and assess the circumstances.

Teach children to investigate different explanations for why something is the way it is. What makes the sky blue? Why do plants turn green? Encourage their curiosity.

2. Creative Thinking

In the context of problem solving, creative thinking is the ability to consider several alternative explanations and solutions. It is the generation of fresh ideas and the discovery of novel solutions to problems. Or being open to multiple perspectives on an object or circumstance.

Reflective exercises are the best way to foster creative thinking. Before you can think creatively about anything, you must first comprehend it. This allows you to think more creatively and remove any preconceptions or biases.

Get your student’s opinions on issues that may have diverse solutions or reasons for occurring. Make it a routine for them to discuss ideas, participate in story-telling activities, and read books. All of these things contribute to broadening one’s thinking and exercising one’s creative muscles.

3. Encourage Independence

It is critical that you maintain your function as an observer, supporter, or facilitator. Take a step back and allow your children to come up with their own ideas. Keep an eye on what’s going on while protecting their safety and well-being.

As an observer, you foster independence by taking a step back and observing your child tackle the problem in their own unique way. It may take longer than if you rushed in, but allowing kids to their own devices may do a lot for developing their problem-solving abilities.

Appreciate and acknowledge your student’s attempts to help them. Create an environment in which people may openly and successfully communicate their thoughts without fear of being judged. Give kids chances to play and solve issues on their own. Instead of instructing them what to do, encourage them to express themselves by brainstorming things that they might enjoy.

4. Mental Health

Another importance of problem solving skills in education is mental health benefits. The COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating to children’s mental health across the country, in addition to generating school closures and irregular access to education and extracurricular activities, which have resulted in learning losses.

Many parents and instructors have indicated that their pupils are experiencing periods of sorrow and depression since they are unable to readily socialize in person with their friends.

Exploring several solutions to an issue teaches kids to understand they have more agency than they previously believed. It may also encourage children to better express any difficulties that are bothering them.

5. Future Advantages

Finally, the importance of problem solving skills in education can help prepare pupils for a future in which people from all industries will be asked to solve issues that do not yet exist. They will need to go beyond merely possessing the most up-to-date technology, software, or specialist expertise to use these resources in a way that emphasizes developing successful solutions.

In other words, they will need to use problem solving skills to embrace the unknown and reframe nerve-racking uncertainty as a learning opportunity. You may appreciate our post on hybrid learning models .

Problem solving skills, especially when utilized in a group setting, may foster pleasant experiences by promoting team input. Instead of stressing about who gets credit for a particular idea, the answer to issues becomes the result of teamwork.

How to measure problem solving skills

As we are concluding this post on the importance of problem solving skills. Personality and cognitive tests are mostly used to measure problem solving skills.

Personality testing

The emergence of personality testing in the twentieth century was motivated by a desire to optimize employee potential. Personality tests aid in the identification of workplace trends, significant features, and personalities, as well as the assessment of how people may respond to certain situations.

Cognitive ability test

A pre-employment aptitude test evaluates a person’s abilities such as critical thinking, verbal reasoning, arithmetic ability, problem-solving, decision-making, and so on, all of which are indicative of a person’s intelligence quotient (IQ). The test results give information regarding work performance. It also evaluates current and prospective employees for various job levels.

Related Problem Solving FAQs

What are problem solving skills in the workplace.

They include:

• Communication skills.
• Decision-making skills.
• Listening skills.
• Analytical thinking skills.
• Creative thinking skills.

You may like to read our post on the benefits of collaborative learning .

Can problem solving skills be taught?

Yes, problem solving skills can be taught and many teachers have done that in the past and are still doing it. Teachers are required to plan and give students constant training on problem solving skills.

Problem solving skills vs critical thinking?

In contrast to critical thinking, which is a lifetime activity used to develop your thinking process, problem-solving is a collection of strategies you employ expressly to identify successful answers. You may use it to fix problems as they arise or to plan ahead of time for problems that may arise.

Final Thoughts

As we round off the importance of problem solving skills in education post, it is crucial to note that our children benefit from problem-solving skills at all phases of their lives. So teachers should put their best foot forward and assist youngsters in acquiring these 21st-century applicable skill sets for a massively successful and joyful life ahead! Please check our post on technology-based interactive teaching strategies .

Uncle Pat Ugwu is an educational technology (edtech) consultant and digital literacy coach. Pat is fondly called "tech teacher of teachers" wink.

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Benefits of Problem-Solving Skills for Students

Discover the benefits of problem solving skills for students, from cognitive and emotional development to preparation for the future work. Learn how to promote these skills in young people and prepare them for a successful future.

Problem solving is a fundamental skill that plays a crucial role in the lives of students. Learning to effectively address challenges not only strengthens their ability to face difficult situations, but also benefits their cognitive, emotional and social development. In this article, we will explore in detail the benefits that problem solving skills provide to students, along with practical advice and relevant future trends.

Introduction

Problem solving is a crucial element in academic life and beyond. The ability to face challenges, analyze situations and find effective solutions is essential for success in the school environment and in everyday life. In this sense, problem solving skills are an invaluable tool for students, as they allow them to face all kinds of difficulties with confidence and determination.

In this article, we will explore in depth the benefits that problem solving skills offer students, as well as their impact on different aspects of their lives. From cognitive and emotional development to their preparation for the future of work, we will analyze how these skills play an integral role in the growth and success of students.

History and Background

Problem solving skills have deep roots in the history of education. From the first pedagogical philosophies to modern teaching approaches, the importance of building the capacity to solve problems has been recognized and promoted over time.

Origins and Evolution

The emphasis on solving problems in education goes back to ancient philosophical schools, where the ability to think critically and solve ethical dilemmas was highly valued. Over the centuries, the teaching of problem-solving skills has evolved, adapting to changes in society, technology and the economy.

Important Developments

A significant milestone in promoting problem solving was the inclusion of this skill in global educational curricula. The identification of problem solving as a fundamental skill led to its integration into different areas of study, from mathematics and science to social sciences and the working world.

Anecdotes and Case Studies

The impact of problem solving skills teaching is reflected in numerous case studies and anecdotes that highlight how students who possess these skills are able to face academic and personal challenges with confidence and success. Specific examples of how problem solving has transformed the lives of students illustrate their importance and effectiveness in education.

Detailed Analysis

Troubleshooting skills offer a wide range of tangible and intangible benefits for students. From their ability to face academic challenges to their development of emotional competencies, problem solving skills are a valuable asset in the lives of students.

Cognitive Benefits

Troubleshooting skills strengthen students' cognitive capacity by fostering critical thinking, making informed decisions and the ability to analyze complex situations. These skills promote logical reasoning and creativity, empowering students to address problems effectively.

Emotional benefits

The mastery of problem solving skills provides students with a sense of self-efficiency and self-confidence, as they learn to face challenges with determination and resilience. By overcoming obstacles, students strengthen their self-esteem and develop a positive attitude towards personal learning and overcoming.

Social benefits

Troubleshooting not only benefits individual students, but also improves their teamwork, communication and collaboration skills. Students who are skilled in solving problems are able to participate effectively in group activities, providing innovative solutions and promoting a collaborative learning environment.

Current Trends and Challenges

In the digital era, problem-solving skills are gaining even greater relevance, as students must face unique challenges derived from technology, globalization and changes in the working environment. The ability to adapt to these new challenges and find innovative solutions has become a prerequisite for the future success of students.

Comprehensive review

The application of problem solving skills in different contexts and their impact on the growth and development of students provides an integral view of their importance in education.

Practical Applications

Problem solving is applied in a wide range of situations, from solving complex mathematical problems to addressing interpersonal conflicts. By exposing students to diverse scenarios that require the application of these skills, they are prepared to successfully face challenges in all areas of their lives.

Best Practices and Expert Perspectives

Educators and experts in the field of educational psychology agree on the importance of integrating problem solving skills in the school curriculum. Effective approaches and innovative strategies have been developed to teach and strengthen these skills, generating positive results in students' academic and emotional performance.

Deep Analysis of Pros and Contras

While problem-solving skills offer many benefits, it is also crucial to consider the challenges and constraints associated with their teaching and implementation. The detailed analysis of advantages and disadvantages provides a balanced vision that enriches the understanding of the importance of these skills.

Comparative analysis

The comparison between the benefits of problem solving skills, the different skills that can be acquired and their impact on students allows to identify relevant similarities, differences and synergies.

Comparison of Benefits

By comparing the benefits of problem-solving skills with other skills, such as memorization or repetition of information, the unique and universal importance of these skills is emphasized to address challenges and promote meaningful learning.

Variances and Complementarities

While each skill has its own value, problem-solving skills stand out for its ability to develop critical thinking, adaptability and ability to find innovative solutions, essential qualities in today's world.

Examples and Scenarios

The presentation of concrete examples and scenarios that illustrate how problem solving skills exceed other skills offers a clear understanding of their impact and relevance in student education.

Practical Tips and Recommendations

Effective integration of problem solving skills in student education requires practical approaches and clear recommendations for educators and parents.

Practice Guidelines

Providing educators with clear guidelines on how to integrate problem solving skills in the classroom facilitates their implementation and maximizes their impact on student development.

Steps to Follow and Practical Guides

The introduction of simple steps and practical guides to encourage problem solving in students offers a clear framework for the application of these skills, both in the school environment and in the home.

Details and Justifications

The support of practical councils with detailed explanations and justifications reinforces their validation and promotes their effective adoption in the educational context.

Industry Perspectives and Expert Reviews

The analysis of industry perspectives and the opinions of experts in the field of education enriches the understanding of problem solving skills and their impact on students.

Future Ideas and Implications

The anticipation of emerging trends related to problem-solving skills allows us to glimpse their evolution and their influence in the future of education.

Predictions Based on Current Trends

In analyzing current trends in education and skills development, it is possible to make informed predictions about the evolution and future impact of problem solving skills on student training.

Exploring Challenges and Opportunities

The identification of potential challenges and opportunities arising from the development of problem-solving skills provides a broad view of their role in preparing students for the world of work and life in society.

Conclusions and FAQs

Main findings.

The promotion of problem solving skills among students carries significant benefits that cover the cognitive, emotional and social sphere. These skills not only enable them to face challenges effectively, but also strengthen their self-confidence and collaborative skills, preparing them for a successful future.

Frequently asked questions

Why are problem solving skills important for students.

Problem solving skills are important because they promote critical thinking, creativity and the ability to find effective solutions, essential qualities in the modern world.

How can parents foster problem solving skills in their children?

Parents can foster these skills by providing their children with opportunities to face challenges, supporting them in finding solutions and fostering a learning environment that values problem solving.

What are the long-term benefits of developing childhood problem solving skills?

The development of childhood problem solving skills prepares students to face academic and personal challenges throughout their lives, strengthening their ability to adapt to changing situations and find innovative solutions.

How can educators effectively integrate problem solving skills into the classroom?

Educators can integrate the teaching of these skills by presenting challenges and practical situations, fostering collaboration among students and providing constructive feedback on their resolution approaches.

What is the role of troubleshooting skills in preparing for the world of work?

Problem-solving skills are highly valued in the world of work, as employers seek candidates capable of facing challenges and finding effective solutions in dynamic environments.

How can students improve their troubleshooting skills?

Students can improve their problem solving skills by practising the resolution of diverse challenges, seeking mentoring and using educational resources that foster critical and analytical thinking.

Problem solving skills are an invaluable asset in student education, offering significant benefits that cover cognitive, emotional and social aspects. Their effective integration into the educational environment, both at home and at school, prepares students to face challenges with confidence and develop innovative solutions throughout their lives.

In short, fostering these skills not only strengthens the individual development of students, but also contributes to the formation of future leaders, critical thinkers and agents of change in society.

With the detailed information presented in this article, it is hoped that both educators and parents will understand the importance and benefits of actively promoting problem solving skills among students, preparing them for a future full of achievements and successes.

Remember, developing these skills from an early age not only transforms individual lives, but also enriches our social and labor environment, preparing future generations to face the challenges of the constantly changing world in which we live.

With this comprehensive guide on the benefits of problem solving skills for students, it is possible to foster an educational approach that will enhance the overall growth of young people, preparing them for a promising and successful future.

Remember, problem-solving skills are key to developing an analytical, creative and proactive mentality in students, training them to stand out in their studies, careers and personal lives.

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Problem-Solving-Based Learning: A New Approach to Learning

Skills 30 Nov 2024 85

Problem-Solving-Based Learning: Transforming Education with Real-World Applications

Have you ever wondered why some teaching methods engage students more effectively than others? Many traditional approaches focus on rote memorization, leaving learners connected to the practical application of knowledge. 

In contrast, Problem-Solving-Based Learning (PSBL) offers a refreshing shift. By focusing on active engagement with real-world problems, PSBL nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration—skills vital for success in today's learning environments.

In this article, we'll explore what makes PSBL an impactful educational approach, how it benefits students and educators, and the steps you can take to implement it effectively. Let's discover how this strategy can bring education to life.

Understanding Problem-Solving-Based Learning

What Is PSBL?

Problem-solving-based Learning (PSBL) is a transformative educational approach designed to make students the heart of the learning experience. 

Unlike traditional methods, where students passively absorb information through lectures and rote memorization, PSBL engages learners by presenting them with open-ended, real-world problems that require active exploration and innovative thinking. 

These problems are crafted to reflect the complexities and uncertainties of real life, encouraging students to absorb knowledge and apply it in meaningful ways.

At its core, PSBL promotes learning as a dynamic and interactive process. Students are encouraged to investigate problems independently or collaboratively, analyze the situation critically, brainstorm possible solutions, and test their ideas in a controlled environment. 

This inquiry, analysis and solution-building cycle helps students develop skills beyond academic content, preparing them to navigate the challenges of the real world with confidence and competence. For instance, a class might tackle problems like designing a sustainable community space and integrating concepts from physics, environmental science, and civic planning into a single collaborative project.

In PSBL, mistakes are not viewed as failures but opportunities for growth and deeper understanding. This reframing of challenges fosters a growth mindset, where students feel empowered to take risks and think creatively without fear of being wrong. The emphasis on process over results helps build resilience and adaptability—two traits essential for lifelong learning.

Core Principles of PSBL

1. active engagement.

The cornerstone of PSBL is active participation. Students are not passive recipients of knowledge; instead, they are active problem solvers, engaging directly with the material. By grappling with complex scenarios, students better understand the concepts they are learning. This hands-on engagement helps them connect theoretical knowledge to practical applications, making learning meaningful and memorable.

For example, a biology teacher might challenge students to devise a strategy to combat a hypothetical outbreak of an infectious disease. Through this process, students actively research pathogens, analyze data, and propose evidence-based solutions, developing subject expertise and analytical skills.

2. Collaboration

In PSBL, teamwork is central. Students work in groups to solve problems, mirroring the collaborative dynamics of real-world workplaces. This collaboration enhances learning outcomes and cultivates critical interpersonal skills like communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution.

By pooling their strengths and perspectives, teams often arrive at more innovative solutions than individuals working alone. For instance, a group tasked with designing an eco-friendly urban transportation system might include students with strengths in engineering, environmental science, and public policy, each contributing unique insights to the project.

3. Critical Thinking

PSBL challenges students to think beyond surface-level understanding. Learners are encouraged to evaluate evidence, identify patterns, analyze competing solutions, and justify their decisions logically. This process develops higher-order thinking skills, empowering students to approach complex problems methodically.

For instance, when faced with a problem like reducing a school's carbon footprint, students must critically assess energy consumption patterns, identify feasible alternatives, and evaluate the trade-offs of different solutions before making recommendations.

4. Real-Life Relevance

One of the most compelling aspects of PSBL is its connection to real-world contexts. Problems are carefully designed to mirror the challenges professionals face in various fields, giving students a glimpse into the practical applications of their knowledge. This relevance makes learning more engaging and prepares students for future careers.

For example, a math teacher might challenge students to optimize the layout of a small business's warehouse, requiring them to apply principles of geometry and algebra to solve a real logistical problem. Such exercises reinforce academic skills and instill a sense of purpose as students see how their learning can have tangible impacts.

Benefits of Problem-Solving-Based Learning

Problem-solving-based learning (PSBL) encourages students to go beyond surface-level answers and delve deeper into the complexities of a problem. Unlike traditional methods, which often focus on memorizing facts, PSBL fosters a mindset of exploration and inquiry. 

According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology (2019), students involved in problem-solving activities showed a remarkable 25% improvement in critical thinking skills compared to their peers in conventional classroom settings. This enhancement stems from emphasizing analyzing information, evaluating evidence, and making logical connections. 

For example, when students are tasked with reducing energy consumption in their school, they must gather and assess data, consider multiple perspectives, and justify their recommendations with concrete evidence. These skills benefit academic performance and prepare students for real-world decision-making, where critical thinking is invaluable.

Improving Knowledge Retention

Active engagement is a cornerstone of PSBL, making it a powerful tool for improving knowledge retention. Students interacting with the material rather than passively receiving information create stronger cognitive connections. 

Research from Harvard University (2020) highlights that hands-on learning experiences can boost retention rates by as much as 30%. This improvement is rooted in actively recalling and applying knowledge during problem-solving exercises. 

For instance, a history class might involve students reconstructing key events leading to a historical treaty, requiring them to apply what they've learned in a meaningful context. Such activities help learners internalize information, making it easier to recall and use in the future. Unlike cramming for tests, this method embeds knowledge in a way that sticks, supporting lifelong learning.

Fostering Collaborative Learning

PSBL thrives on collaboration, encouraging students to work together toward a common goal. This approach offers more than just academic advantages; it helps students develop vital soft skills like effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability.

These skills are often as crucial as technical expertise in professional settings. Through group discussions, debates, and joint problem-solving tasks, students learn to value diverse perspectives and negotiate differences. 

For example, a project requiring students to develop a sustainable urban plan might involve contributions from team members with varied strengths in environmental science, urban design, and economics. 

By pooling their expertise, students enhance the quality of their solutions and build mutual respect and understanding. These collaborative experiences mimic real-world teamwork, preparing students for the challenges of modern workplaces.

Applying Knowledge to Real-World Scenarios

The most practical benefit of PSBL is its ability to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. By solving problems rooted in everyday life, students bridge the gap between theory and practice. 

This approach reinforces the relevance of academic subjects and fosters a sense of purpose in learning. For instance, engineering students might be tasked with designing an eco-friendly structure and applying principles of physics, material science, and environmental studies. 

This integration deepens their understanding of core concepts. It equips them with the confidence to tackle similar challenges outside the classroom. 

Similarly, in a business course, students may be asked to develop marketing strategies for a local startup, blending theoretical knowledge with practical execution. Such experiences ensure that students leave the classroom with knowledge and the ability to apply it effectively in real-world scenarios, making their education both impactful and enduring.

How to Implement PSBL in Classrooms

1. crafting effective problem scenarios.

Crafting engaging, real-world problems is the first step to successfully implementing Problem-Solving-Based Learning (PSBL) in classrooms. 

The key is to start with challenges relevant to students' lives or future aspirations, making the learning process meaningful and relatable. 

For instance, in a geography class, you might ask students to design sustainable solutions for managing urban flooding—a real-world issue that integrates urban planning, environmental science, and hydrology concepts. 

When crafting these scenarios, it's crucial to ensure the problems are open-ended, allowing for multiple potential solutions. This approach fosters creativity and helps students realize there isn't always one "correct" answer, reflecting real-world complexity.

Tips for Creating Scenarios:

Relate to Real-Life Contexts : Use scenarios that align with local or global issues students can connect with emotionally and intellectually.

Encourage Interdisciplinary Thinking : Design problems that require integrating knowledge from various subjects to mirror real-world decision-making.

Include Enough Complexity : The problems should be manageable but manageable enough that they deter engagement.

For example, a science teacher might ask, "How can we reduce single-use plastic consumption in our school?" This allows students to explore environmental science, behavioral economics, and community collaboration, creating a holistic learning experience.

2. Role of the Facilitator

In PSBL, educators shift from authoritative instructors to supportive guides facilitating learning. Their primary role is to create an environment where students feel empowered to explore ideas independently while providing subtle guidance to keep them on track. 

Instead of giving direct answers, facilitators ask probing questions like, "What do you think would happen if…?" or "How does this solution address the root cause of the problem?" These questions encourage students to think critically, evaluate their assumptions, and refine their approaches.

Facilitators also play a vital role in nurturing a collaborative classroom culture. By fostering open discussions and encouraging respectful debates, they help students learn from diverse perspectives, which is critical for problem-solving. Additionally, they model curiosity and adaptability—qualities students can emulate during their learning journey.

For instance, in a project where students design a water filtration system, the facilitator might guide students by asking, "What materials are most effective for filtration, and why?" rather than providing the answer. This ensures students take ownership of their learning process, building confidence in their problem-solving abilities.

3. Assessing PSBL Outcomes

Evaluation in PSBL goes beyond traditional metrics like tests and quizzes. Instead, it focuses on assessing creativity, collaboration, and the practicality of proposed solutions. Using clear and objective rubrics can help ensure fairness while providing actionable feedback. For example, a rubric for a group project might assess the originality of ideas, the effectiveness of teamwork, the quality of research, and the feasibility of the solution.

To capture the multifaceted nature of PSBL, consider including peer assessments and self-reflections. Peer assessments allow students to recognize and appreciate their teammates' contributions. At the same time, self-reflections encourage them to evaluate their learning process and identify areas for growth. This dual approach reinforces accountability and helps students develop critical self-awareness.

A practical example of PSBL assessment could involve a history class where students recreate a debate on historical policies. Facilitators could evaluate their understanding of the historical context, the strength of their arguments, and their ability to collaborate with teammates to present a cohesive case.

Challenges of Implementing PSBL

1. limited resources.

One of the primary challenges in adopting Problem-Solving-Based Learning (PSBL) is the need for more adequate resources in many schools. These resources may include digital platforms for collaboration, lab equipment for experiments, or even the physical space required for hands-on projects. 

Schools operating with tight budgets or limited access to technology often need help fully embracing PSBL. However, creative solutions can help overcome these barriers. For instance, educators can leverage free online tools such as Google Workspace or Microsoft Teams to facilitate collaborative tasks and document sharing. 

Additionally, forming partnerships with local businesses, non-profits, or community organizations can provide access to resources like materials, guest speakers, or project mentorship. For example, a local environmental group might assist a school's PSBL project focused on creating sustainable waste management solutions. These partnerships enhance the learning experience and build a stronger connection between schools and their communities.

2. Teacher Training

Effective implementation of PSBL relies heavily on the facilitators. Teachers accustomed to traditional methods often need significant training to adopt this approach successfully. Crafting open-ended, interdisciplinary problem scenarios requires careful planning and understanding of how to guide discussions without dominating them. 

Workshops and professional development programs tailored to PSBL methodologies are essential to equip educators with the necessary skills. For example, teachers might participate in training sessions that simulate PSBL activities, giving them firsthand experience with the challenges and rewards of facilitating such projects. These sessions also provide strategies for managing diverse classrooms and ensuring all students are engaged.

A well-trained teacher can transform PSBL into a powerful learning tool by encouraging critical thinking, fostering collaboration, and nurturing creativity.

3. Student Adaptation

For students used to passive learning environments where the teacher delivers answers, transitioning to PSBL can be daunting. They may feel overwhelmed by the need to take initiative, work collaboratively, or tackle problems without clear-cut solutions. 

To ease this transition, educators can introduce PSBL gradually, starting with minor, guided problems before moving on to more complex, student-driven projects. Clear expectations, scaffolding, and frequent feedback can help students adjust to this new way of learning. 

For instance, an introductory PSBL activity might involve solving a simple logistical problem, such as organizing a classroom event, before progressing to more demanding challenges like designing a cost-effective water purification system. 

Over time, students build the confidence and skills needed to thrive in a PSBL environment, transforming apprehension into empowerment. This gradual shift also allows teachers to gauge student readiness and make necessary adjustments to ensure the success of each project.

Real-World Applications of PSBL

1. in stem education.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects naturally align with Problem-Solving-Based Learning (PSBL) because they focus on practical, real-world challenges. PSBL allows students to engage directly with concepts through hands-on projects, making abstract theories more tangible.

For example, in a biology class, students might be tasked with designing a plan to track local biodiversity in a nearby park or urban area. 

This project would require them to apply data collection, species identification, and environmental analysis skills, fostering a deeper understanding of ecological concepts. Similarly, in a physics class, students might work in teams to build a model of an energy-efficient house, applying principles of thermodynamics and material science. These projects enhance technical skills and encourage creativity and teamwork, equipping students for future STEM careers where these competencies are in high demand.

2. In Medical Education

Problem-solving-based learning is a cornerstone of modern medical education, where it plays a critical role in preparing future doctors to handle the complexities of patient care. 

Medical schools often use case-based learning, a PSBL approach in which students are presented with simulated patient scenarios. 

For instance, medical students might diagnose and treat a patient showing symptoms of multiple health conditions. This exercise challenges them to integrate anatomy, pharmacology, and pathology knowledge while considering patient history and ethical implications. 

By engaging in such scenarios, students develop critical diagnostic skills, learn to collaborate effectively in teams, and practice making informed decisions under pressure. This real-world preparation is invaluable, as it mirrors the complexity and unpredictability of healthcare environments, ensuring that graduates are ready to navigate high-stakes situations confidently.

3. In Business and Management

Business schools increasingly adopt PSBL to help students develop innovative solutions to real-world problems, fostering entrepreneurial thinking and strategic decision-making.

For example, students might be tasked with creating a marketing strategy for a hypothetical startup or solving a supply chain bottleneck for a local business. 

These projects often require students to conduct market research, analyze financial data, and collaborate across disciplines, providing a comprehensive understanding of business operations. 

In another scenario, management students might work on designing a leadership development program for a company facing high employee turnover. 

Such exercises reinforce theoretical knowledge and cultivate practical skills like negotiation, presentation, and adaptability. By engaging in PSBL, business students gain experience tackling challenges that mirror those they will encounter in their professional careers, giving them a competitive edge in the workplace.

Evidence-Based Insights on PSBL

Cambridge University Study (2020) : PSBL improved teamwork skills in 80% of students.

PISA 2018 Report : Countries emphasizing PSBL scored higher in problem-solving assessments.

OECD Learning Study (2021) : Students using PSBL were 40% more likely to apply knowledge effectively in real-world contexts.

Dr. John Hattie ( Visible Learning , 2018): "Active learning methods like PSBL consistently lead to better student outcomes."

Practical Tips for Success

For educators.

Starting small is key if you're an educator new to Problem-Solving-Based Learning (PSBL). Introduce one well-planned PSBL activity per semester to familiarize yourself and your students with the process. 

For example, you might begin with a straightforward problem, such as having students propose solutions for reducing food waste in the school cafeteria. As you grow more comfortable, gradually expand to more complex, interdisciplinary projects. 

Collaboration with colleagues can also enhance your success. Sharing resources, brainstorming ideas, and co-planning PSBL activities can reduce the workload and inspire creativity. For instance, science and art teachers might co-design a project where students create educational materials about climate change. By working together, educators can tap into diverse expertise, enriching the learning experience for everyone.

2. For Students

For students, embracing PSBL means developing a collaborative mindset and seeing mistakes as opportunities for growth. Working on a team can be challenging, but it's also a chance to build critical soft skills like communication, conflict resolution, and active listening. 

Students should proactively seek feedback, not just from teachers but also from peers, to refine their solutions. For instance, after presenting a solution to reduce campus energy consumption, a group might incorporate suggestions from classmates to improve feasibility and impact. 

By engaging fully in the PSBL process, students develop resilience, adaptability, and confidence—skills that will serve them in academic and professional settings.

3. For Administrators

Administrators play a crucial role in the success of PSBL initiatives. Investing in professional development programs for teachers is a vital first step, ensuring educators have the tools and confidence to implement this approach effectively. 

For instance, workshops on creating problem scenarios or facilitating group dynamics can be invaluable. Additionally, allocating resources to support PSBL is essential. This might include providing access to collaborative technologies like Google Workspace, funding materials for hands-on projects, or even creating dedicated maker spaces where students can experiment and innovate. 

Administrators can also foster partnerships with local businesses or community organizations, providing mentorship, sponsorship, or real-world problem scenarios for students to tackle. These efforts create a supportive environment where educators and students can thrive in implementing PSBL, ensuring its long-term success.

Problem-solving-based Learning (PSBL) is a dynamic, engaging approach that prepares students for real-world challenges. By fostering critical thinking, enhancing collaboration, and connecting theory with practice, PSBL equips learners with the tools they need to succeed. 

As educators, adopting this strategy transforms your classroom and inspires students to become lifelong learners.

So, why wait? Start small, embrace the challenges, and watch your students thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Problem-Solving-Based Learning?

PSBL is an active learning method where students solve real-world problems collaboratively, enhancing critical thinking and practical skills.

2. How does PSBL benefit students?

It improves critical thinking, knowledge retention, collaboration, and applying knowledge.

3. Can PSBL be used in non-STEM fields?

PSBL is effective in various disciplines, including humanities, business, and social sciences.

4. What challenges do educators face with PSBL?

Challenges include:

Limited resources.

The need for teacher training.

Student adaptation to active learning methods.

5. How can schools support PSBL implementation?

By providing resources, training educators, and creating opportunities for collaborative learning environments.

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Problem Based Learning Advantages and Disadvantages

Problem based learning is a technique of learning where the students learn about the subjects through conceptual problem solving mechanisms.

It is open ended in nature and can be used by a wide number of students at the same time. Problem based learning was first originated from McMaster University and has since then spread through many parts of the world, like Europe and Asia.

Students are required to solve a question by using concepts and skills and discuss how they can use these for further purposes.

Structure of Problem Based Learning (PBL):

PBL can have many forms according to Atherton J.S (2005). A good PBL can have the following factors:

• Problems should associate with real life problems.
• Unlike the normal method learning, where students try to solve questions based on the available knowledge that they have received; In PBL, students try to solve questions without any prior knowledge, and they can find answers through the exploration of several options provided by the question.
• At the beginning of the learning process, problems are given to the students in the form of PBL intentionally.
• Problem based learning should support studying through effective teamwork and that it should alliance friendly, that is, the problem should study in such a manner that each aspect of the question should be divided among the team so that everyone can gain from it.
• The teacher becomes a coordinator who acts as a supervisor, a source guide and becomes an advisor for the students.
• Problem based learning requires lots of time, and each PBL should give time for the students to learn and participate.
• PBL is most effective if it crosses multi-disciplinary disciplines. This helps PBL to be effective in a large number of areas.

Why Problem-Based Learning (PBL)?

A PBL course design in such a way to provide students with authentic, hands-on real life problems and practices that encourage students to think outside the box.

The students grouped to form groups that usually supervise by the teacher or any teaching associate from their respective departments.

In traditional learning methods, pupils often burden by the topics they teach and the whole studying experience becomes boring and cumbersome.

Moreover, students expect to study and memorize topics, which do not even seem relevant to the day to day life activities. This makes studying just a mere tool for getting a job and nothing more.

Students don’t feel any enthusiasm towards studying and do not show any interest in taking the initiative to study what teaches in the classroom.

The main reason for this issue is that no effective discussions are going on within the classroom about the topics, and the students cannot share their ideas on how they can use a certain topic that they studied and apply it to real-life problems.

The main advantage of PBL is that it makes the whole learning experience interesting. PBL is a challenging program because they need to understand the design of the organization and how it works by the motivation of the whole team.

The information provided is apparent; the students feel a need to search for information when they solve and discuss problems. Hence students can feel genuinely interested in learning.

Types of PBL:

There are mainly 3 types of PBL. Those are:

1. Problem stimulated PBL (PS PBL):

PS PBL uses relevant knowledge and information to solve problems. These are used to emphasize the three basic goals:

• Development of domain specific skills.
• Development of problem solving skill.
• Interpretation of domain-specific knowledge

2. Student centered PBL (SC PBL):

SC PBL has the same factor as PS PBL, and it also adds one more factor; updating life-long skills. This factor is beneficial for people who have been teaching and practicing in a certain filed, for a long time.

Constantly updating their skill set is important. This applies to individuals such as doctors, engineers, and executive professionals.

3. Case-based PBL :

Determine what type of solution present, what should use to solve the given scenario and focus and stress on that topic to study.

Search for alternative methods and see how the scenario can solve more efficiently. This method also knows as learning by design.

How Does PBL Work?

The first step in PBL is setting up groups. These groups consist of a group of students, a supervisor or a consultant and they usually discuss what scenario they are facing, i.e the problem presented.

The problems presented can vary from a well organized structure in an economic aspect to discussing medical issues and emergencies.

Hence it develops your ability for self-studying and keeps you ready for an emergency or any crisis.

PBL doesn’t advocate memorizing topics since the topics that studied understood and interpreted in such a way that it should use to solve the scenario presented.

PBL constitute of different phases, these are:

First, the group will discuss what they already know. This can write down and reflect upon. Then discuss the problem present, point out what all scenarios are surrounding the given scheme.

Hence, agreement on what kind of problem it is made. Furthermore, this analysis decides what different aspects of the plot should be studied and investigated.

The problems all take as assumptions at first and are clear accordingly when new knowledge and information found.

The next method for solving the problem deciding what all factors should require to solve the problem. That comes under the heading “ What do we need to know about the problem?” .

Point out what all factors are there, which needs to solve to finish the problem.

In this process, the group divide into different subgroups and each sub-group is concentrating on the different factors needed. This is called a brainstorming session .

The new and previously understood ideas share within the group, by writing down the points found, on a whiteboard or a paper, where everyone can see. This process can further develop by systematically outlining the result.

This phase requires the individuals to discuss the various hypothesis that presented, and how they can be solved. This comes under the heading, “ what should we do?” .

With the given information, keep track of what all books should read, who to consult about the acquire information, what books to follow about the plot.

This method encourages the group to identify and follow the different study techniques.

Students expect to collect information from various sources such as videos, books, interviews, journals and the group supposes to meet at regular intervals to discuss the usefulness of the solutions acquire and how it should use to solve the problem.

Advantages of Problem Based Learning:

• PBL replaces the traditional lectures with assistive learning, facultative mentoring, discussions and on site experience. This promotes deep learning within the individual. Hence the students’ knowledge grows as more and more discussions are made.
• Direct teaching is reduced. This promotes students to take up their initiative in learning. This increases the feeling of motivation within the student. Hence, making the learning experience more interesting.
• Problem based learning requires prior knowledge for the completion of problems. Hence, constant updation and revision of basic knowledge are done. This keeps the student more firm in the basic foundation of the subject.
• Problem based thinking often stimulates critical thinking . The students try to think about the various aspects of the project rather than following what teach through lectures. The students pursue to think about how, where and why aspect of the problems introduced.
• Problem based learners tend to be more skilled and competent in collecting information than traditional learners. This is because traditional learners tend to only stick to books that prescribe in the curriculum and they do not try to explore various sources. On the other hand, problem based learners tend to be more practical and PBL encourages them to think outside the box.
• PBL relate to life based skills and practices, hence these skills can also transfer to individuals through proper training and practices. Therefore, such skills can act as an aid in real life situations like in corporate jobs or the medical field.
• The problems introduced in the PBL curriculum are all open-ended questions. This gives room for more discussions and understanding about the concepts and more data retrieval can be done. Moreover, such questions do not have a right or wrong answer. The most suitable and feasible answers take into consideration. Hence, there might also be a chance to have more than one answer to a question. This encourages individuals to study the facts more clearly.
• Another main factor of PBL is that it requires good communication skills . Pbl increases the social skills of the individuals as it involves the comparison of peer skills and also insightful discussions. There is no form of hierarchy, and all the individuals treat as same. This also makes the students develop their confrontational and persuasive skills.

Disadvantages of Problem Based Learning:

• A good problem based learning design requires a large amount of time and work. It requires constant monitoring and noting down the student throughout the process. This is a bit time consuming in nature since most of the questions asked are usually open-ended and it takes time to collect materials and information about it.
• Not all teachers can be good advisors, for PBL they need dedicated, hardworking and trained facilitators. Moreover, good PBL trainers are satisfying to work with and are self – motivational for the students and fellow teachers.
• Problem based learning requires more staff and more contact hours for preparation, discussion and comparison of answers. Students and the advisors supposed to do timely and seasonable meetings once in a while.
• It’s a known fact that PBL doesn’t provide that many facts when compared with the traditional method, so many of the teachers hesitant to take up this form of teaching. PBL is more suitable for subjects that do not require much prior knowledge about the subject. For example, for teaching literature or for using PBL in arts facilities.
• For the PBL curriculum to be effective, it requires multiple disciplines to integrate, so that the students can get different aspects of a situation. Hence, proper research and excessive amounts of an organization required. This makes it more time consumable and is not suitable for fast pace courses. The course also needs to validate before presenting it before the students.
• Assessing a certain student within a team is always tough for the coordinator. They have to consider different aspects such as the output obtained as a whole for the team, the level of enthusiasm shown by each individual, the activeness shown by a certain student. A clear assessment criterion or a standard for marking students in a group is always important.
• PBL is also difficult for the institution because they have to change the course depending upon the lecturer. Since the whole PBL curriculum is an image of their ideals and how they should train the students.
• More and more coordinators required to assess and guide students along the way and also they need people to create as many difficult situations as possible.

Problem based learning is also an essential way of teaching because it prepares the students on how to be ready to face the outside world and how to be an effective and valuable member of society. This also encourages others – the public to also be a part of the experience.

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Understanding Problem Based Learning: Strategies and Benefits

Instructors are regularly looking for new ways to increase the engagement that students feel with their material. Engaged, active students are more likely to learn the lessons that they’re taught. So, in response, researchers and educators have been on a decades old quest to re-envision education and find new ways to instruct students.

One of these new ways of approaching education is problem based learning. This kind of learning is a student focused approach to teaching in which instruction is done by having students focus on problems while working in groups.

This approach serves two purposes. First, this approach helps students to construct knowledge rather than passively learn it, which helps to promote retention of information. Second, the group based approach helps peers to engage with one another, which has also been linked to improved outcomes in education.

The Advantages of Problem Based Learning

Research has previously pointed to numerous advantages arising from using the problem based approach to education. The first advantage is that it uses the group approach to learning, which has itself been associated with several positive academic outcomes.

Students engaged in group work typically have superior academic achievement when compared against individuals who work alone. Teachers hoping to improve the academic outcomes among their students can use the problem based approach and rely on the group based aspect to help drive part of the academic improvements they hope for. Researchers have also indicated that group approaches to research are valuable because they improve students’ communication skills.

Although not typically a skill taught in schools, communication is a soft skill that students can use throughout their academic lives. Further, communication skills are valuable because they can help students once they move on to their professional lives. The group based aspect of problem based learning, therefore, may help pass along valuable communication skills that can benefit students far beyond the lessons they’re learning immediately in class.

Returning to the larger topic of problem based learning, there are many advantages beyond passing along communication skills. The group work itself requires project ownership and leadership. Through the course of solving a problem, students have to assume different roles and be proactive in helping drive the group’s success. The problem based approach also helps convey critical thinking skills.

Students have to analyze different sources of data and bring together relevant information to address the research problem. At the same time, students also need to be able to evaluate whether the group has made satisfactory progress toward answering the research questions and work within the group to drive more progress.

Though the nature of the work is group work, problem based learning also requires students to be self-directed in their knowledge. Each group member has to contribute to the larger success of the group. This requires students to be active looking up data and possible solutions to the problem they’re trying to solve. Being able to be a self-directed learner is therefore still important to the work, and this teaches students the importance of being independently motivated to succeed academically.

Beyond these advantages, there are at least a few more that students will be able to carry away with them. First, because the research requires students to perform significant research attempting to solve the issue, students need to develop appropriate research skills. Students need to learn where they can find different resources and effective ways of conducting research.

By learning these skills, students become better prepared to conduct research at higher grade levels, including at university. Students also become skilled problem solvers. As such, there are multiple advantages and benefits to using the problem based approach to education.

Problem Based Learning versus Inquiry Based Learning

One point of confusion among educators has to do with the fact that many people don’t understand the difference between problem based learning versus inquiry based learning . The two approaches are student centered and similar in several other respects. However, there are also a few differences that distinguish the two approaches.

In inquiry based learning, there’s a greater emphasis on the process. This approach requires students to become better researchers, so there’s a greater emphasis on reflection and thinking about how a student’s research process could be improved.

Students may come up with their own questions or be presented with questions before engaging in different research approaches. During the question development process, students refine and refine their question, again emphasizing the importance of the process in inquiry based learning.

Problem based learning, on the other hand, is less focused on improving the student’s research process and instead focused on answering real world problems. Teachers present students with authentic circumstances that require investigation. Students then become immersed in an investigative approach that involves testing and repeating, much as would be found in a traditional science and research context.

Consequently, both inquiry based and problem based learning requires investigation and research, with inquiry based approaches focusing more on improving the student’s research process and problem based learning focusing more on the given investigative method needed for a real world problem. Both approaches may also involve collaboration, but there’s a greater emphasis on collaboration in the problem based approach, while students are typically expected to independently answer the research question they develop, though they may engage with peers and their instructor to help them in their research.

In practice, teachers will often experience a great degree of overlap in using each instructional approach, but will want to apply problem based learning when there’s an emphasis on collaborative group work aimed at solving a single real world problem that can be given to each group.

Creating a Problem Based Lesson

Before you can actually use the problem based approach to education, there are a few different steps that you must go through to ensure that the lesson is effective. The first step, as with many other educational approaches, is to identify the learning outcomes of the lesson.

The problem you use during this approach needs to be geared toward achieving specific learning outcomes. So, the first thing to ask is what you want students to learn by the end of the lesson.

After answering that question, identify the problem that can help to best communicate that information as students go through the process of answering it. Typically, the problem should be rooted in a real world situation. This is important because it helps to ground the lesson in something real that students can identify with.

Teachers also need to set some ground rules for the class and how research will be conducted. What resources students can use, the conduct of each student, and the contributions each student will make should all be discussed. Beyond this though, teachers should also prepare their students for the group work they will be conducting.

This can be done through the use of warm up exercises meant to acquaint them with assessing their research and the research of others. If a class is conducting problem based learning approaches for the first time, then it may be helpful to assign each group member a specific role. However, this is up to the discretion of the instructor.

Lastly, teachers should also be clear regarding how the group work will be graded. Group work can be a source of contention among students, since some may feel as if they’ve contributed more than others. Clearly specify how each person in a group will be graded in a way that is fair to all group members.

Examples of Problems

Over the years, problem based learning has been used in a variety of contexts, so there are a number of different examples that researchers can look to if they need help visualizing what problem based learning looks like.

This is especially important when educators are trying to clarify how problem based learning looks like depending on grade level. At the elementary school level, for instance, teachers encouraged students to learn information about topics that could be applied to working in a garden.

When preparing to work in the garden, teachers noted that the students had to go in-depth with information about soil, sunlight, and related topics. The students were then able to develop solutions to problems they might face when working in a garden.

Because teachers were working with elementary school populations, there was less focus on advanced research methods and greater emphasis on finding an engaging problem that would capture the interest of students. Students then learned more about the topic and attempted to address the problem in front of them.

At the middle school level, teachers found it a bit more difficult to capture the attention of students. For many, it seemed that students were at a precarious age where they had little interest in their academic performance. One way that teachers found they could attract attention was by generating problems in which students took on authoritative roles with leadership power.

As one example, teachers said they assigned lessons in which students took on roles such as school administrators or city leaders. Using this approach interested students and helped capture their attention, highlighting the need for teachers to come up with intriguing real world problems For example, teachers noted that agricultural problems that could impact the entire region were of interest to students in addition to political and school problems.

Other teachers noted that research into medical problems also captured the interest of students and even encouraged future interest in similar topics. As such, the problem based approach may be useful for encouraging specific interests in students that last far beyond the classroom in which they’re introduced to those topics.

At the high school level, teachers applied the problem based approach in a number of ways. Literature lessons were enhanced by bringing in people who had direct experience of some of the literature being discussed. Researchers noted that, when discussing harsh topics and issues, it made students consider ethical dimensions of the literature that they previously had not considered.

In a science course, learning about the degree of waste that occurred in the United States helped students to tackle problems of lunchroom waste in their schools. One physics instructor indicated that student interest physical design included addressing flooding in the local community.

From elementary through middle and high school, teachers increasingly found success by finding problems that were of interest to students at different grade levels. This required creative thinking and a willingness to find problems that would adequately capture the attention of students.

As can be seen in a review of problems used at different grade levels, teachers constantly identified different problems that were of interest among younger and older students. When designing lessons, teachers should carefully consider what sort of problem will capture the attention of students of all learning levels.

Lesson Structure

Researchers have also arrived at recommendations for how teachers should structure their lessons. At the beginning of a lesson, teachers should begin by clarifying unclear terms and concepts for their students. This helps to remove an early barrier to learning so that students can focus more on researching solutions to the problem they’ve been presented with. Second, the problem should be defined. Students can ask several different questions that may address the problem, which they can use to guide their research.

The analysis phase of the class includes students tying together the different questions and coming to an understanding of what is currently not known. In discussions within their groups, students may be able to quickly identify what information they’re lacking to solve the problem. After students have identified what information is lacking to address a problem, teachers can then guide their future research by formalizing the learning goals for their group.

At this point, it’s up to students to begin looking through different sources of information to find the lacking information. This information can be used to address the questions that have been developed and devise a final solution to the larger problem that was presented by the instructor. Finally, teachers should evaluate the findings, assess the quality of the resources used, and discuss the theories and explanations students arrived at.

As can be seen in this simple lesson structure, problem based classrooms can be highly engaging and interactive ones, with teachers bringing a loose structure to the class and allowing students to develop questions that address a central problem before directing students on where they may want to take their research.

Students and teachers work together to address the problem rather than the teacher handling the development of questions independently. Using this approach and by allowing students to work in groups, teachers can encourage greater engagement and improve the chance that students retain their lessons over time.

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