Project Title

Technological Tools to Support Learner Centered Teaching: Content Development and Research into Advanced Learning with Case and Problem Oriented Pedagogies



Overview

This project focuses on research into the design of hypermedia environments that support problem-based learning with online cases in order to help foster deep learning of difficult ideas and knowledge at particular grade levels. The project uses a system for PBeL (Problem-Based e-Learning), the Knowledge Mediator, which was developed as part of previously funded research by the Principal Investigator. This system has special conceptual, ontological, metacognitive, and problem-oriented learning scaffolds and embedded computer modeling features to enhance learning in the physical and social sciences. Prior research involving earlier versions of this system documented significant (and difficult to achieve) learning outcomes related to conceptual change and knowledge transfer. The current project employs a design research methodology in which the project team is working with Singapore secondary teachers to develop new case and problem content for middle to low ability students in nutritional science and history classes. The research is focusing on ways the use of the PBeL hypermedia system might enhance the content understandings students have in these subject areas, their problem solving skills, and their ability to apply or transfer their knowledge to new situations. The project is also exploring ways that a PBeL system such as this might be used in conjunction with industry standards-compliant learning management systems being employed in Singapore schools that would facilitate larger scale classroom research and use in the future.

Project Reference

LSL 2/05 MJ