Student Resources

Student Resources

It's finally here—the first day of the quarter. After circling the University Avenue Garage four times, you slip into a recently vacated parking space beating out another student driving an ancient Honda Accord who was headed for your spot!

You grab your backpack from the back seat and then make your way to your first class. After plopping down into a seat near the back of the room, you begin to scan the syllabus.

The instructor begins class with an icebreaker after which the syllabus is reviewed. While discussing the syllabus, she comments that she uses something called "problem-based learning" that includes quite a bit of group work. A collective groan rises from the students assembled in the room.

Your professor gazes out at the sea of faces with an astonished look on her face! "What's wrong?"

A deep voice from the row behind you asserts with some gusto, "I hate group work!" Several classmates, including you, voice their agreement.

"What?" your professor responds. "What could possibly be wrong with group work? There is plenty of educational research that shows that working in groups is an extremely effective way to learn!"

Once again, the voice from the back responds, "I didn't come to college to work in groups! I came to college to be taught!"

If this scenario describes your reaction to working in groups, you've come to the right place! This section provides information about what problem-based learning really is and why your instructor would want to incorporate this teaching strategy into your course. You will also find a student handbook which may address many of your questions and concerns about PBL and working in groups.