Transcript Wired to Connect: The Science of Problem

Wired to Connect:
The Science of
Problem-Based
Learning
Arkansas Student Success Symposium
Donna Younger, Ed.D.
3/27/2013
ENGAGEMENT
INTERESTED
INVOLVED
ACTIVE
COMMITTED
WE’RE COMPLICATED CREATURES
BRAIN CONNECTIONS…
TO OTHER PEOPLE
NEW INFO TO OLD INFO
FEELINGS TO THOUGHTS
WE NEED EACH OTHER
TO THRIVE
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THE SAME PART OF THE BRAIN IS
ENGAGED WHEN WE SEE PEOPLE IN
PAIN AS WHEN WE EXPERIENCE
PAIN OURSELVES
ANIMALS DO THIS AS WELL….
WIRED FOR EMPATHY
MIRROR NEURONS ARE ALSO ENGAGED
WHEN WE WATCH SOMEONE PERFORM AN
ACTION WE HAVE ALSO PERFORMED IN
THE PAST
“MIRROR” NEURONS HELP US
LEARN BY CONNECTING
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NEURAL PATHWAYS LEAD US TO LOOK
FOR AN EXISTING “FILE” WHEN WE
ENCOUNTER NEW INFORMATION OR
EXPERIENCES.
AND EACH TIME WE SEARCH, WE
STRENGTHEN THE PATHWAY AND
ENRICH THE “FILE”
Active Learning
Strategies both use
and develop the natural
tendency of our wiring
to make and strengthen
connections

Problem-Based Learning – inquiry in
order to apply learning
Simulation – application of learning
through problem-solving
Project-based learning –
application of learning through
creation
Engagement Strategies That Create
Connections
Problem-Based Learning (PBL)
is a student-centered active learning approach that
addresses increasing demand for individuals who can
Demonstrate technical or theoretical competence in
their fields
Apply knowledge to solve problems
Identify and use resources in the field
Work on a team
Work as a reflective practitioner
PBL isn’t new…
Was introduced in medical
education to close the gap
between school and the
practice of medicine
PBL is characterized by…
small groups
ill-defined problem
what we know vs. what we
need to know
gathering and analyzing info
evaluating alternate solutions
recommending the best for the
problem
PBL is flexible for the
classroom…
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Single class session
Team Project
Course framework
PBL highlights
benefits of the
variety of learning
preferences
students represent
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The nontraditional adult program at
Arkansas College of the Professions
has been successful for many years,
relying on word-of-mouth referrals
from students. With increasing
competition, enrollments are suffering.
The program is competence-based and
encourages students to earn credit
through prior learning assessment.
What do you recommend to increase
enrollments?
A Short Sample of PBL
What do you know
….about the problem
….about the relevant field(s)
What do you need to know?
What research needs to be done?
What hunches do you have?
Would you rather have
read an article about
recruiting adult
students??