Bill Robertson, Ph.D. - Classes
Teacher Education Department

TED 5314 - Current Topics Science Education

Discussion 1 on Principles of Problem Based Learning

What is Problem-Based Learning (PBL)? How is inquiry utilized effectively in a PBL curriculum? How can standards for learning be effectively integrated into a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) curriculum?

For each discussion area you will write at least 200 words or more in your discussion posting in response to guided questions that will be provided. You will also reply (at least 50 words each response) to the entries of at least two of your fellow participants for each discussion topic in order to receive full credit. Discussion boards and Quizzes will be locked at the identified time and date as indicated in the course schedule.

Discussion 2 on PBL and Concept Design

How should a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) curriculum be designed in order to ensure conceptually correct content understandings take place? What do you see as the advantages/disadvantages of using PBL as a multidisciplinary unit?

For each discussion area you will write at least 200 words or more in your discussion posting in response to guided questions that will be provided. You will also reply (at least 50 words each response) to the entries of at least two of your fellow participants for each discussion topic in order to receive full credit. Discussion boards and Quizzes will be locked at the identified time and date as indicated in the course schedule.

Discussion 3 on the Relevance in Creating Integrated PBL Units

In Concept-Based Curriculum and Instruction: Teaching Beyond the Facts, the author defines principles of effective design of PBLs and a way to put the emphasis on the conceptual learning through providing effective relevance and feedback in an interactive learning environment. Based on your PBL topic and outlined format that you have been developing in class, define what you see as the most important principles of effective instruction, classroom strategies and interactions needed to provide a successful interactive learning environment.

For each discussion area you will write at least 200 words or more in your discussion posting in response to guided questions that will be provided. You will also reply (at least 50 words each response) to the entries of at least two of your fellow participants for each discussion topic in order to receive full credit. Discussion boards and Quizzes will be locked at the identified time and date as indicated in the course schedule.