Focus
Supporting learning through co-dependent, goal-oriented action among adult learnersPrincipal Metaphors
- Knowledge is … scope of possible actions and interpretations
- Knowing is … doing
- Learner is … a collaborator (individual) and a problem-solving team (collective)
- Learning is … developing understanding while application and exploration
- Teaching is … supervising, facilitating, guiding
Originated
1960sSynopsis
A type of Active Learning or Inquiry-Based Learning, Problem-Based Learning is a small-group-based classroom approach that is structured around open-ended problems. The orienting goal is not a defined solution, but by the development of knowledge, communication skills, and collaborative competencies. That is, learning is seen to happen at both individual and group levels. While not limited to adult-education settings, it is was developed in and is most often encountered in professional schools. As might be expected, Problem-Based Learning is commonly associated with:- Problem Solving – a phrase that is used to label many different emphases and practices within discussions of learning and teaching. Most commonly, Problem Solving refers to engagement with non-routine exercises, which is seen to support Deep Learning (see Deep vs. Surface Learning) through contextualizing subject matter while requiring learners to think divergently. Opinions vary dramatically over what constitutes good teaching practice around Problem Solving, but empirical evidence points toward precision (and/or opportunities to seek clarity), nuanced scaffolding, instruction in decomposing complicated scenarios, tight linkages to current study, personal relevance, and social supports,
Commentary
Problem-Based Learning was first developed in medical schools, where instructors could assume highly motivated students, intent on profound understandings and refined skill sets – and where competencies in accessing and keeping abreast with emerging insights are as important as solid groundings in established knowledge. Problem-Based Learning would thus seem very well fitted to some professions, but caution should be taken when seeking to generalize to other groups and subject matters. Even in ideal settings, commonly noted issues include time demands, unclear expectations, inadequate scaffolding, and limitations due to instructor knowledge.Authors and/or Prominent Influences
John DeweyStatus as a Theory of Learning
Problem-Based Learning is not a theory of learning.Status as a Theory of Teaching
Problem-Based Learning is a theory of teaching that has proven effective in some professional schools.Status as a Scientific Theory
Problem-Based Learning is founded on scientific theories of learning. Proponents claim a significant body of evidence supporting claims that the approach, properly executed, is associated with higher achievement, more connected understandings, and improved attitudes.Subdiscourses:
- Problem Solving
Map Location

Please cite this article as:
Davis, B., & Francis, K. (2020). “Problem-Based Learning” in Discourses on Learning in Education. https://learningdiscourses.com.
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