History+of+PBL



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Problem-based learning was first used in medical schools in the 1960s and was eventually picked up by K-12 educators (Learning Theories Knowledgebase). This method was very effective in allowing students to take on challenging problems that involved numerous aspects such as ethics, economics and politics. By having to investigate all of these areas and how they effect the problem, students begin to understand that not all problems have a "right answer."

Problem-based learning is considered to be a much more effective learning style than teachers spoon-feeding the students information in a lecture. This complex learning environment help students to become "experts" in their particular field. Because of the self-directed nature of PBL, student achievement tends to increase due to the use of higher order thinking skills (Gallagher 310).

Gifted Students and PBL