Problems as Possibilities

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an experiential form of learning centered around the collaborative investigation and resolution of "messy, real-world" problems. This book offers opportunities to learn about problem-based learning from the perspectives of teachers, students, parents, administrators, and curriculum developers. Chapter 1 tells stories through the comments of teachers and students who have experienced PBL and illustrates PBL's possibilities with vignettes from several grade levels and contexts. Chapter 2 provides an overview of PBL, and chapter 3 presents background information. Chapters 4, 5, and 6 allow readers to play with an idea (like declining frog populations, underage smoking, or mosquito abatement) and make it their own. Tips are offered for mapping the terrain of problem possibilities, planning a problem-based adventure, developing the problem statement, and implementing the discovery process (via coaching, facilitating understanding, diagnosing, mentoring, questioning, modeling, managing group work, monitoring student engagement, and embedding instruction and assessment). Chapter 7 explains the rationale for problem-based learning. (Contains 84 references.) (MLH)