the role of technology in support of problem-based learning in online learning environments yu-chun...
TRANSCRIPT
The Role of Technology in Support of Problem-Based Learning in Online Learning Environments
Yu-Chun Kuo
Andrew Walker
Purpose
An attempt to integrate problem-based learning (PBL) into online learning environment emerges in the recent studies
Distributed problem-based learning (dPBL) The role of communication technology in mediating PBL The distortion of PBL processes used in face-to-face small-gr
oup work
Literature Review
Problem-based learning: Student-centeredness Teachers as facilitators Small groups ranging from five to eight or nine students Presentation of ill-structured problems Self-directed learning
Literature Review
The role of technology PBL does contribute to a set of positive learning outcomes dPBL appears to be as effective as PBL used in traditional cla
ssroom learning
Methods
This study includes reports by searching different databases using the combination of keywords: problem-based learning plus online, web-based, or distance.
Methods
Combinations of keywords
PBL & online PBL & web-based
PBL & distance
Number of papers 46 10 16
Results
Most of the online PBL courses were designed based on the critical elements of PBL defined by Barrows (1986, 1996, 2002), except for the requirement of a small group
dPBL is not strict on the rule of small groups ranging from five to eight or nine students
Results
POLARIS ACT (asynchronous conferencing tool) CAOS (the Case Analysis in Organizational Situations) Challenge FRAP (Form for the Recording of the Analysis of Pr
oblems)
Implications
Systems/tools are found to be designed for specific purposes For a successful dPBL, a combination of synchronous and as
ynchronous deliveries might be helpful, compared to using either one of them alone
Generally, a more strict structure of problem-solving process is suggested in online PBL