Process

A typical PBL cycle consists of three stages.

Encountering and defining the problem

• An authentic problem is given to the group.
  
• One member reads out the problem to the group.
  
• Group members identify the learning issues.
  
  • What might the problem be about?
    
  • What do we know about the problem?
    
  • What else do we not already know about this problem or question?
    
• A problem statement is drafted for initial focus, to be revised subsequently where necessary.

Information gathering and evaluation

• The group decides what information is needed to address the question effectively.
  
  • What do we need to know to effectively address this problem or question?
    
  • What resources can we access (e.g. printed matter, electronic documents, oral interviews) to obtain a diversity of perspectives?
    
• Students evaluate the new information for credibility of source, accuracy, currency, possible bias, etc.
  
• Drawing on new information, students test and reconsider their ideas accordingly.
  
• The process of acquiring and integrating new information continues for the period of time allocated to this stage.

Solution framing and presentation

• Students re-organise their information, integrating and using new information to arrive at what is considered the best solution to the problem posed.
  
• A paper or multimedia presentation is prepared.

Philosophy | Parameters | Process | Pointers | Problems | Promises