CIDR - Problem-Based Learning

Problem-Based Learning engages students in learning by presenting them with a problem that is challenging, open-ended, and authentic. Teams of students work together in teams to identify the information they need and to develop a reasonable solution to the problem. Instructors become facilitators, coaching students as they work through the problem-solving process. This approach can be highly motivating to students, and has been shown to foster the development of critical thinking, team participation, problem-solving, and self-directed learning.

CIDR Resources

	CIDR Teaching and Learning Bulletin Problem-Based Learning CIDR Teaching and Learning Bulletin, 7(3)

	Consult with CIDR CIDR consultants are available to meet with you and discuss your questions about problem-based learning. See our Consulting pages on exploring teaching issues, diversity and inclusive teaching practices, designing courses and assignments, and collecting student feedback for more information. To schedule a consultation, call 206-543-6588, or contact us by email to arrange an appointment.

	Available in the CIDR Reading Room Duch, B. J., Groh, S. E., & Allen, D. E. (Eds.). (2001). The power of problem-based learning. Sterling, VA: Stylus. France, K. (2004). Problem-based service learning: Rewards and challenges with undergraduates. In C. Wahlburg & S. Chadwick-Blossey (Eds.), To Improve the Academy, 22, 239-250. Knowlton, D. S., & Sharp, D. C. (Eds.). (2003). New Directions for Teaching and Learning: No. 95. Problem-based learning in the information age. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. McKeachie, W. J., & Svinicki, M. (2006). Problem-based learning: Teaching with cases, simulations, and games. In W. J. McKeachie & M. Svinicki (Eds.), Teaching Tips: Strategies, research, and theory for college and university teachers (12th ed., pp. 221-228). Boston: Houghton Mifflin. Savin-Baden, M. (2003). Facilitating problem-based learning: Illuminating perspectives. Philadelphia: The Society for Research into Higher Education & Open University Press. Wilkerson, L., & Gijselaers, W. H. (Eds.). (1996). New Directions for Teaching and Learning: No. 68. Bringing problem-based learning to higher education: Theory and practice. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Problem Based Learning
Speaking of Teaching 11(1), from the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stanford University (2001)

Problem-Based Learning
at the University of Delaware: "Problem-based learning (PBL) is an instructional method that challenges students to 'learn to learn,' working cooperatively in groups to seek solutions to real world problems ..."

Problem-Based Learning: An Introduction
by James Rhem, in the National Teaching and Learning Forum, 8(1), December 1998.

The Problem-Based Learning Initiative
at Samford University, including information and resources for planning and assessing PBL courses, and access to copies of the newsletter PBL Insight

Problem-Based Learning
by Don Woods

Dolmans, D. H. F. H., Wolfhagen, I. H. A. P., van der Vleuten, C. P. M., & Wijnen, W. H. F. W. (2001). Solving problems with group work in problem-based learning. Medical Education, 35, 884-889.