Hey what’s going on guys, talking today about getting started with Problem-Based Learning and how prepare both yourself and your students for Problem-Based Learning (PBL). 

The first thing to consider when putting together PBL activities, is to identify real world application to the content that you are covering, specifically real world problems that students can work together to solve. A strategy that can be really helpful when implementing this is to give students a scenario to set up the problem that they are solving as this helps students see and understand how the content they are learning applies to their lives and is used by real-world scientists. 


Next, incorporate collaborative concepts to allow students to gain experience working in groups, similar to what they will be asked to do after entering the work force. Almost all career fields ask human beings to work together and collaborate with others which means experience in those type of situations is critical. Asking students to collaborate teaches students teamwork and working towards a common goal, and also allows room for students to learn both content an soft skills from one another. 


Another key concept for PBL is allowing space for creativity and unique student approaches. This works on two different levels, first it allows students to put their own personal touch on their final product for PBL activities which allows students more easily to “buy-in” as they are able to take ownership of their learning. On the other side, it doesn’t give students a step by step guide to reaching a final product that is the same that all other students will be working towards. This allows students to forge their own path, not worry about comparing themselves directly to other students, and get outside of their usual comfort zone. 


Lastly, keep in mind that when it comes to implementing new strategies, your first version will not be your final version, and constant improvement is the most important thing. After you complete your first PBL activity, take note of what worked, what didn’t and how you can improve what you are doing for PBL moving forward. 


Hope that helps and that you guys are able to take something and apply it to your classroom. As always, any questions don’t hesitate to reach out and ask. Talk to you guys soon!