Increasing the STEM Pipeline through Problem-Based Learning

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an instructional approach whereby students learn content by actively and collaboratively solving authentic, real-world problems. Used extensively in medical education since the 1970’s, PBL has emerged as an exciting and effective alternative to traditional lecture-based instruction in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. Research shows that PBL improves student learning and retention, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to apply knowledge in new situations – skills deemed critical for success in the 21 st century workplace. In ” Problem Based Learning for Sustainable Technologies: Increasing the STEM Pipeline ” (STEM PBL), the principles of PBL are being used to develop innovative, standards-based curricula with the aim of increasing students’ interest and preparedness in pursuing STEM- related careers. STEM PBL is a project of the New England Board of Higher Education and is funded by the National Science Foundation.

Currently, the project PIs are working with industry collaborators breaking new ground in “green” technologies to create a comprehensive series of online multimedia PBL resources focused on sustainability. Referred to as “STEM PBL Challenges,” these instructional materials are designed to engage secondary and post-secondary students in real-world problem-solving. The project teams STEM teachers from high schools with faculty from two- and four-year institutions of higher education from New England and across the country. In addition to providing professional development in both on-site and online formats to in-service teachers, the STEM PBL project will also create a model course in PBL methodology for pre-service middle and secondary school teachers. As a capstone project, these pre-service teachers will develop an original multimedia PBL Challenge on a STEM topic of their choosing. As a result, a collection of STEM-related PBL learning tools will evolve and be disseminated along with the details of the project and the results of research on its outcomes.