Open AccessInnovative eLearning: Technology Shaping Contemporary Problem Based Learning: A Cross-Case Analysis
Author(s) -
Greg Blackburn
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
journal of university teaching and learning practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.258
H-Index - 8
ISSN - 1449-9789
DOI - 10.53761/1.12.2.5
Subject(s) - critical thinking , problem based learning , multinational corporation , educational technology , pedagogy , active learning (machine learning) , information and communications technology , teaching method , technology integration , mathematics education , psychology , discipline , instructional design , sociology , computer science , engineering ethics , engineering , political science , social science , artificial intelligence , world wide web , law
Preparing students to be critical thinkers and effective communicators is essential in today’s multinational and technologically sophisticated environment. New electronic technologies provide opportunities for creating learning environments that extend the possibilities of ‘old’ but still essential technologies: books, blackboards, and linear, one-way communication media. Such technologies contribute to engagement and meaningful learning in the higher education sector. Greater understanding in educational psychology and the effectiveness of educational interventions has motivated the development of various student-centred pedagogies (e.g. Problem-Based Learning (PBL)) addressing perceived shortcomings of traditional didactic instruction. PBL as a pedagogy promotes meaningful learning due largely to its power to stimulate critical, reflective and creative thinking. Can teaching staff, then, adopt technology-based approaches to create multi-disciplinary interactive PBL environments that enhance learning and excite students, inspiring them to take ownership of their own education? This paper presents a cross-case analysis of four cases that explore how classroom-based learning activities have been transferred to online formats in universities to improve critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and other learning attributes across a range of disciplines.