Problem Based Learning versus Project Based Learning in Electrical-Electronics Engineering Programs
Cuneyt Guzelis
Izmir University of Economics, Izmir, Turkey
cuneyt.guzelis@ieu.edu.tr
Abstract
The problem based learning and project based learning are two different but closely
related examples of active learning methods used in engineering education programs
as well as in non-engineering programs. The problem based learning is based on
introducing a real engineering problem usually within a scenario to the students
so that the students are asked to define the problem first and then produce a number
of alternative solutions by brain storming in structured problem based learning
sessions and then converge to a solution by elimination based on getting new
information and on conducting analysis and/or experimentation. In the project based
learning, a real problem is also given to the students but with a mini scenario
defining the targets which might be a design and/or implementation task to be
accomplished within economical, technical constraints concerning also environmental
issues. The paper presents an evaluation of both methods in a comparative way with
considering the experience in an electrical-electronics engineering program which
had conducted problem based learning for 6 years. A discussion on meeting ABET and
MUDEK criteria in problem based learning and in project based learning is also
included in the paper.
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