Education Commons^™

An Evaluation Of The Effectiveness Of Using A Hybrid Pbl Approach In The Teaching Of The Java Programming Language To First Year Third Level, James Doody

Stream 2: Curriculum

First year students on third level Computing courses find Software Development difficult: learner outcomes are poor, with high failure rates and low learner retention. A number of research studies have shown that novice programmers have low intrinsic motivation and low programming self-efficacy. One of the other possible explanations for the difficulties many learners have with Software Development is that it may be a Threshold Concept in Computing. The literature suggests that Problem-Based Learning (PBL) can improve the teaching of difficult concepts, and it has been promoted by professional and funding bodies as a teaching strategy that can improve learner outcomes …

Community Building In Online Pbl Courses: Instigating Criticality, Elizabeth Childs, Roland Van Oostveen, Kathleen Flynn, Jessica Clarkson

Stream 6: Global University

As post secondary institutions continue to endeavor to address changing stakeholder expectations and policy directions, new curriculum models that allow for choice and learner flexibility are required. One approach that shows promise in this area is online problem-based learning (PBL). This paper discusses a case-study of the implementation of a problem-based learning pedagogical framework that fosters the development of meaningful teacher-learner; learner-learner, and learner-content relationships (vanOostveen & Desjardins, 2013) in an online Bachelor’s program in adult education and digital technology. Within this context, the attributes and affordances of a program design model on facilitating online community are examined.

Introducing Pbl Into Civil And Structural Engineering, Niall Holmes, Una Beagon

Teaching Fellowships

The benefits of problem based learning for students are a deeper understanding of lecture material, and the development of problem solving and collaboration skills which will greatly enhance their educational experience. This approach has been successful in other programmes as it departs from the traditional ‘what I am told I need to know’ to ‘what I need to know to solve the problem’ promoting self-directed learning. Lecturers in turn transition from the giver of information to the facilitator of learning through support, guidance and monitoring. This project introduced an active learning element into two concrete technology modules by replacing traditional …

Assessing The Effectiveness Of A Problem-Based Computer Modelling Module From The Student's Perspective, Garrett Keane, Brian Bowe

Conference papers

The Computer Modelling module delivered to the third year Level 8 Mechanical Engineering students in the Technological University Dublin is marked completely by continual assessment. It was developed using a problem based approach in that the theory of Computer Modelling methods is first explained but is then illustrated by demonstrating its application to the solution of real life problems. It is delivered in a traditional manner for the first six weeks in that the underlying principles and techniques of the finite difference method are covered in lectures and practical assignments are completed in the weekly computer laboratory classes. A problem …

A Case Study Of Student Engagement In Collaborative Group Learning In A Blended Community Based (Service) Learning Module, John G. Mcgarrigle

Research Theses

Abstract: A participatory action research case study employed mixed methods to examine student collaboration and engagement in a Community Based (Service) learning module. A quasi experimental testing of Coates (2007) typology of student engagement found low agreement between students and lecturers in assigning the terms, passive, intense, independent or collaborative to student postings to discussion fora. Evidence from this case study found greater student collaboration in discussion fora when linked to practical course activity. Qualitative analysis of discussion threads using conversation analysis provided evidence for collaboration in deeper knowledge construction when supported by lecturers’ contributions. Discourse analysis examined interviews with …

Activity Systems Within Blended Problem-Based Learning In Academic Professional Development, Roisin Donnelly

Articles

Blending face-to-face and online problem-based learning environments presents opportunities for both learners and lecturers to take part in collaborative knowledge construction. Activity theory is a suitable framework to investigate such environments and the learning processes that both sets of participants experience when engaging in these complementary environments. This paper attempts to map out the potential for activity systems using a blended problem-based learning approach through the exploration of an accredited academic staff development programme in Ireland. Firstly, an analysis of tool use and the discourse that participants and tutors engage in is presented. Secondly, tutor reflections about the evolution of …

The Tutor's Role In Propagating Blended Problem-Based Learning In Higher Education: A Case Study Approach, Roisin Donnelly

Other resources

It is argued in this thesis that it is vital to seek to develop e-learning teaching and learning strategies in higher education that support approaches with an emphasis on the innovative and cutting edge educational strategies related to education for sustainability. Education for sustainability should be learner centred and will require a significant shift for both academics and students alike. It is essential that all academics who are willing to engage in this process acknowledge that they too are learners and will need to reflect on their teaching and learning practice if we are to develop a truly sustainable global …

Contemplating The Evolving Role Of The Tutor In Blended Problem Based Learning In Higher Education, Roisin Donnelly

Other resources

A hugely important area in any form of face to face and PBL delivery is the role of the tutor; in an e-learning environment, it is even more crucial. The role of the tutor in blended PBL is both special and crucial for effective learning outcomes and enjoyable learning experiences for students in higher education. As an educational developer and tutor in higher education, whilst working with academic staff, I encounter issues in postgraduate modules that use blended problem-based learning delivery methods. IN this professional context, blended learning refers to a merging of classroom and online activities that must be …

A Problem-Based Learning Approach To Continuing Professional Education For Pre-School Officers In The Early Childhood Care And Education Sector In Ireland: Rationale And Curriculum Design, Maresa Duignan

Theses

This study explores the potential of Problem-Based-Learning (PBL) as a teaching and learning strategy and curriculum design, in a continuing professional education course for a group of Pre-School Officers in the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) sector in Ireland. A rationale for the adoption of PBL is presented. This rationale is based on the symmetry between PBL as a teaching and learning strategy and the professional practice model of the ECCE sector in Ireland. It is also grounded in the correspondence between established criteria for effective continuing professional education and PBL theory and practice.

A qualitative research design is …

An Online Dilemma: The Pull Of Individuality Pitched Against Peer Collaboration In An Online Problem-Based Learning Group, Roisin Donnelly

Conference papers

In early 2001, a new Postgraduate Diploma in Third Level Learning and Teaching was launched for lecturers from a range of higher education institutions in the Republic of Ireland. This paper describes ongoing research undertaken for the re-design of one module out of the eight offered on the Postgraduate Diploma: the Online Learning (OL) Module delivered using the pedagogical strategy of Problem-based Learning (PBL). This Postgraduate Diploma is entirely voluntary and only lecturers who are keen to implement novel pedagogical approaches in their own subject disciplines apply for a place on the modules. The aim of the OL/PBL module is …

Teaching Postgraduate Research Methods Using A Novel Problem-Based Learning Approach, Roisin Donnelly

Other resources

This session describes both the reasons for and the process of designing and delivering a Research Methods Module using a Problem-based Learning (PBL) approach in a Postgraduate Diploma in Third Level Learning and Teaching at a higher education institute in Ireland. The students who undertake this part-time Module are cohorts of academic staff (Faculty Members) in Higher Education (HE). They are hitherto referred to as participants. This module is one of eight offered on the PG Diploma, all designed and delivered using Problem-based Learning. The entire PG Diploma is voluntary, and only Faculty who are keen to implement novel pedagogical …