Informatics education enhanced by problem-based learning model via e-Learning:
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Date
2018
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
IGI Global
Abstract
This book chapter presents an assessment of the implementation of a blended approach (Problem Based Learning
and E-learning) in teaching Research Methods for Computing and Information Management course to Informatics
students at Sokoine University of Agriculture, in Tanzania. The respondents comprised of 55 students and 10
instructors from the Department of Informatics. The students were taught Research Methods for Computing and
Information Management course for 16 weeks using Problem Based Learning and E-learning principles. The
results revealed that the use of Problem Based Learning enabled students to develop problem solving and critical
thinking skills. Also, it was revealed that, in spite of the benefits of Problem Based Learning and E-learning in
improving student-student and student-teacher interactions, the implementation of Problem Based Learning and
E-learning in teaching Research Methods for Computing and Information Management course faced a number of
contextual and infrastructural challenges such as lack of adequate Information and Communication Technology
infrastructure, lack of external support, low Internet bandwidth, inadequate number of computers, lack of knowledge
on E-learning and Problem Based Learning by facilitators, and lack of a unified policy for blending approach for
teaching and learning different courses in most Higher Learning Institutions of developing countries. This book
chapter recommends the adoption of flipped classroom instructional strategy in which Problem Based Learning
and E-learning are used to promote student participation during the process of teaching and learning
Description
Article
Keywords
Informatics education, Learning model, Electronic learning
Citation
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-5225-3132-6.ch019