Problem-Based Learning (PBL)

Synonyms

Deep learning; Group work; Solving problems

Problem-based learning (PBL) represented a major and widespread change in educational practice within higher education when introduced into McMaster University and Case Western Reserve Medical Schools during the 1960s (Barrows 2007). The teaching and learning strategy spread during the 1970s into medical schools in Newcastle (Australia), Maastricht (Netherlands), and New Mexico Universities. Since then problem-based learning has spread across the world and is currently practiced intermittently across the United States, Canada, Europe, Singapore, and Australia. From beginnings in medical schools, problem-based learning has been introduced into all of the health sciences, engineering, business, science, and education. Increasing uptake of problem-based learning (which differs from problem solving) occurred because it was considered a means to engage students in deep rather than surface learning and was viewed as a successful strategy...