Problem Based Learning

http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/images/8/87/Problem_2.jpg

At first, when I found out week 5's topic, 'Problem Based Learning', the first thought that came to my mind was (1) how to maximize the process as well as product of this learning method with regard to class time constraints and (2) how to make students engage themselves further in working on the project, so they can end up with a project of considerable quality and not that is 'copied-and-pasted'.

The discussion in nicenet gave me quite significant insights in answering these two questions:
(1) In order to maximize the process and product of this learning method, surely it is a bit impossible to rely on class time only. I was thinking to extend the project outside the class by using internet. One way that I think possible is to ask the students to make a blog / wiki / forum. In here, they can regularly post how far they have progressed with their report and their peers can also see as well as comment on the works. Teachers can also periodically control whether students have progressed or not, and give suggestions as well as hints.

(2) Then, students' submitting works with 'copied-and-pasted' materials is quite common to be found. Of course, as teachers, we consider this as something undesirable. Nevertheless, I was wondering how to make students engage themselves further in producing a good quality work.
The answer is: rubrics. To put it plain words, through the discussion I just reminded that rubrics can also serve as a 'contract', in which students are informed what they are expected to do and how good / far they have to do it. I think this is more than enough to ensure the students to keep their work quality.