ERIC Number: EJ974653
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0749-4025
EISSN: N/A
The Impact of Problem Based Learning (PBL) on Student Attitudes toward Science, Problem-Solving Skills, and Sense of Community in the Classroom
Ferreira, Maria M.; Trudel, Anthony R.
Journal of Classroom Interaction, v47 n1 p23-30 2012
Problem-based learning (PBL) is a constructivist pedagogical approach to learning in which students work together to find solutions to a complex problem. This study used a mixed-method approach to examine the impact of PBL on student attitudes toward science, problem-solving skills and their perceptions of the learning environment. Forty-eight students in three regular high school chemistry classes participated in the study. Results based on student answers to a survey questionnaire, journal entries, approaches to solving a problem, and teacher classroom observations indicated a significant increase in student attitudes toward science, problem-solving skills and positive views of the learning environment. The use of PBL also facilitated the development of a sense of community in the classroom. (Contains 4 tables.)
Descriptors: Constructivism (Learning), Student Attitudes, Problem Based Learning, Chemistry, Problem Solving, Program Effectiveness, Educational Environment, Teaching Methods, High School Students, Attitude Measures, Secondary School Science, Questionnaires, Journal Writing, Observation, Attitude Change, Classroom Environment, Catholic Schools
University of Houston, College of Education. 442 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204-5026. Web site: http://www.jciuh.org/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: High Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A