What is Problem Based Learning or PBL?

Problem Based Learning is one of the many Student-Centered Learning methods mostly used in Medicine and Engineering Faculties in Universities. It is a proven method in teaching future doctors and engineers to become good problem solvers in their respective fields. After McMaster University pioneered PBL, the rest of the world in all educational related fields followed suit. PBL uses cooperative or collaborative learning. The problems given to the students are real.

Republic Polytechnic in Singapore has adopted PBL in all its courses. I had the priviliged to attend a 3 day workshop conducted by 2 of the Polytechnic's PBL Instructors at Taylor's Business School. It was an eye opener. Before attending the PBL workshop I was gropping in the dark but after the workshop, I am now able to carry out PBL in my chemistry classroom using the Polytechnic as a guide.

Here's a video I found on You Tube on Republic Polytechnic's PBL. PBL works!