Problem-Based Learning

Through problem-based learning, students work in groups to research a real-life problem. The advantages are:

Students model the research process with real problems, helping them transfer that learning to other research projects and assignments.
Group work addresses the problem of different skill levels and experience. Students with more library research experience can help teach students with less experience.
PBL can help you assess students' research skills as they begin English 2010, by uncovering where groups or individuals have difficulty in the research process.
PBL addresses all of the English 2010 learning goals.

Lesson Plans

The following lessons can be adapted for two or more sessions. They can also include a focus on academic disciplines. In general, students read a short article and spend part of a class session discussing the problem and brainstorming research questions. Then students visit the library for one or two sessions of hands-on research. They might demonstrate their search tools and techniques to the rest of the class. A final session can include a presentation of research findings.

How should the public and legislators address the issue of rising tuition costs?
Note: This lesson is written for online classes. Lesson plan: pdf | Word
Web Page

What are the pros, cons, and issues around alternative fuels such as biofuels?
Lesson Plan: pdf | rtf
Web Page

Should we restrict the growth of towns and human populations into wilderness areas?
Lesson Plan pdf | Word
Web Page
Handout: pdf | Word
Pre-session reading is available on Course Reserves: LIB0000, English 2010 Wilderness Reading; Instructor: Reference)

Should a Wal-Mart be built at the south end of Cache Valley?
Main Lesson Plan pdf | Word
Web Page
Optional Lesson: Evaluation of Credibility pdf | Word
(Handouts with copyrighted articles and letter to the editor are available on Course Reserves: LIB0000, English 2010 Walmart Readings; Instructor: Reference)

Is it okay to share music files via computer and download free music?
Lesson Plan pdf | Word
Web Page
Handout pdf | Word

Should storage of nuclear waste on the Goshute/Skull Valley Indian Reservation be allowed?
Lesson Plan pdf | Word
Web Page

Should fast food restaurants be held accountable, like tobacco companies, for contributing to obesity in America?
Note: This is an extended, multi-session lesson that can also include an emphasis on academic disciplines.
Lesson Plan pdf | Word
Web Page

Handouts

Research Worksheet pdf | Word
Academic Disciplines pdf | Word

Assignments

The success of Problem-Based Learning depends upon a real assignment. We recommend one or more of the following, based on previous English 1010 and 2010 courses.

Annotated bibliography
Presentation of research findings and/or a proposal of solutions to the problem
A short paper/self-assessment reflecting on the research process
A letter to the editor or member of Congress outlining the issues and proposed solution to the problem

Additional Resources on PBL

The Problem-Based Learning Initiative

Problem-Based Learning at Samford University

University of Delaware: Problem-Based Learning

For more information, contact Wendy Holliday, Coordinator of Library Instruction, 797-0731.