Student learning processes using an online PBL module in an art and design education course

Kim Snepvangers
College of Fine Arts
The University of New South Wales

Iain McAlpine
Educational Development and Technology Centre (EDTeC)
The University of New South Wales

The PBL approach is used to encourage deep learning on tasks that reflect the complexity of ‘real world’ professional environments. Using an online learning environment as part of the PBL approach enables the students to be self-directed in their approach to problem resolution. This study considers the design of an online PBL module and how students used the online resources in their group work on a professional practice problem. Student interaction is considered from an analysis of online discussions to reveal learning processes. An end-of-course survey reveals student perceptions of this approach.

Keywords: problem-based learning, collaborative learning, online learning, online discussion, art education