Problem-Based Learning: An Inquiry Approach

A step-bystep guide for teaching your students to think critically and solve complex problems! In a world with increasingly global economies and competition, students need to learn how to think critically and analytically, and to apply their imaginations to solve complex problems. Problem-based learning (PBL) does just that, helping students identify problems, pose their own questions, research answers, report results, and create a stake in their own learning. While teachers know the benefits, they are sometimes challenged by the process. Expert John Barell troubleshoots the PBL process for teachers. Basic procedures make this remarkably effective teaching model accessible and highly doable for all teachers, from beginners to veterans. The author draws on practical classroom experiences and incorporates methods that are widely praised by reviewers and users of the first edition. This standards-based, teacher-friendly second edition includes: A step-by-step method to simplify the process Examples showing problem-based learning in action Answers to frequently asked questions on standards-based implementation Thorough guidelines for developing problems for students to solve and letting them develop their own Rubrics and assessment tips to ensure that standards are met Problem-Based Learning, Second Edition offers an easy-to-follow, rich teaching model for all teachers and grade levels, enabling you to confidently engage students for more meaningful learning and success, both inside and outside the classroom!

Table of Contents:
Introduction Part 1. Preparation 1. An Inquiry Process 2. Designing the Invitational Environment 3. A Curricular Overview Part 2. Application 4. Teacher-Directed Inquiry 5. Teacher-Student Shared Inquiry 6. Student-Directed Inquiry 7. Multidisciplinary Approaches 8. Assessment, Application, and Reflection Appendix A References Index

About the Author :
Learn more about John Barell′s PD offerings John Barell is Professor Emeritus of Curriculum and Teaching at Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, and former public school teacher in New York City. For the past several years he has been a consultant for inquiry-based instruction and creation of science/social studies networks at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. For most of his educational career he has worked with schools nationally to foster inquiry, problem-based learning, critical thinking, and reflection. Barell is the author of several books, including Teaching for Thoughtfulness: Strategies to Enhance Intellectual Development (1995, 2nd ed.) and Developing More Curious Minds (2003).

Review :
"Deserves a place on every educator′s bookshelf. This book offers multiple examples of easy and practical ways to incorporate problem-based inquiry into every classroom." "An easy-to-read, straightforward approach to improving student achievement. This valuable resource refocuses on what is most important in our educational system: getting kids to think for themselves." "Barell shares numerous examples from teachers and students to illustrate what inquiry looks like and provides the necessary tools and step-by-step guidelines to bring problem-based learning to your classroom." "Provides both the theoretical and practical framework for structuring instruction that will stimulate the natural curiosity of students." "A winning, application-based analysis of PBL. Teachers receive an excellent survey of the process with attention to troubleshooting common issues and problems." "Enables teachers to prepare their students to take ownership of a task and use appropriate learning resources in acquiring contextual and procedural knowledge and gaining proficiency in problem-solving skills through self-directed learning and collaborative teams. For those starting out exploring problem-based learning and discovering how to facilitate the learning process, this book is a place to begin." "Barell has provided a sound strategy and an easy-to-follow outline for the PBL process."