Problem based learning as an innovative teaching method!

PBL engages students by using real-world challenges, problems, and scenarios to evoke critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and self-management. The learners then present their solutions to the group and class. PBL is an effective teaching strategy in that it engages learners and makes students more aware of real-world issues. It develops deeper learning competencies that the adult learner can use throughout their studies and careers.

Adult education focuses on helping learners to become more efficient and effective in performing tasks, solving conflicts, and evaluating decisions in their lives as opposed to other forms of education that focus on preparing one for life (Smith, 1999).

Problem-based learning enhances the analytical and critical skills of learners and actively engaging the minds of adults by solving real-world problems that learners may face on a day-to-day basis.

When in comparison to more standard instructional methods, problem-based learning has been shown to have an increased rate of retention of content for learners and provides learning benefits over a longer period of time (Miflin, 2004).

Furthermore, adult learners directly benefit from problem-based learning as it facilitates the development of an expansive knowledge base, problem-solving skills, collaboration, motivation, and lifelong learning (Hmelo-Silver & Barrows, 2004).

• PBL enables adult learners to take control of their own learning
• Problem based learning allows adult learners to work in team-a transversal skills all jobs require
• Problem based learning allows adult learners to study/learn in context

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In problem-based learning, the instructor acts as a facilitator and provides guidance and direction for learners. This may be a significant change for educators to shift from instructor-centred methods such as lectures or discussions led by the educator.

The responsibility of the educator is to assist learners in developing their own problem-solving strategies that provide the learner with a continuously growing skill set that has applications to solving real-world problems. Consequently, adult learners will become more and more confident and motivated in solving problems that they encounter in their own lives.

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1. The best digital RESEARCHING TOOLS to support problem-based learning:
   TED Ed- has up to date video/content on current topics

2. The best digital TASK LIST TOOLS to support problem-based learning
   Monday.com -is a project management tool that enables organizations to manage tasks, projects, and team work.

3. The best digital TOOLS FOR SHARING AND COLLABORATING content:
   Answer Garden- is a new minimalistic feedback tool. Use it for real time audience participation, online brainstorming and classroom feedback.
   Diigo – Diigo is the one of the best tools in regards to: extension for annotating, archiving and bookmarking webpages.