MANUSCRIPT: Enabling Problem Based Learning through Web 2.0 Technologies: PBL 2.0
ABSTRACT
Advances in Information and Communications Technology (ICT), particularly the so-called Web 2.0, are affecting all aspects of our life: How we communicate, how we shop, how we socialise, how we learn. Facilitating learning through the use of ICT, also known as eLearning, is a vital part of modern educational systems. Established pedagogical strategies, such as Problem Based Learning (PBL), are being adapted for online use in conjunction with modern Web 2.0 technologies and tools. However, even though Web 2.0 and progressive social-networking technologies are automatically associated with ideals such as collaboration, sharing, and active learning, it is also possible to use them in a very conservative, teacher-centred way limiting thus their impact. In this paper, we present PBL 2.0 framework, i.e., a framework combining PBL practices with Web 2.0 technologies. More specifically, we (a) explain the theoretical considerations and construct the PBL 2.0 framework; (b) develop a learning platform to support the PBL 2.0 framework approach; and (c) apply PBL 2.0 in a real-world setting for lecturing University students. Pilot results are encouraging as overall satisfaction with the developed platform and good acceptance of the new learning practices is observed. Although the full potential of PBL 2.0 could not be achieved due to different institutional and cultural obstacles, authors believe that PBL 2.0 framework provides good guidance for designing and implementing a PBL course.
Written by Brian S McGowan, PhD
Dr. McGowan has served in leadership positions in numerous medical educational organizations and commercial supporters and is a Fellow of the Alliance (FACEhp). He founded the Outcomes Standardization Project, launched and hosted the Alliance Podcast, and most recently launched and hosts the JCEHP Emerging Best Practices in CPD podcast. In 2012 he Co-Founded ArcheMedX, Inc, a healthcare informatics and e-learning company to apply his research in practice.
