A comparison of problem-based and didactic learning pedagogies on an electronics engineering course. Issue 1 (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Johnson, Michael; Hayes, Martin J
• Is Part Of: International journal of electrical engineering education. Volume 53:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 3
• Page End: 22
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: Electronics -- engineering -- education -- problem-based learning; Electrical engineering -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Periodicals; Electrical engineering -- Periodicals; 621.30711
• DOI: 10.1177/0020720915592012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-7209

Abstract

This paper presents an evaluation of a problem-based learning methodology versus a more traditional laboratory-based approach to teaching tutorials for electronics modules in undergraduate engineering classes at the University of Limerick, Ireland. First-hand qualitative and quantitative comparative feedback from students is assessed for the same module across successive cohorts using both learning pedagogies. The analysis suggests that a problem-based learning methodology offers significant benefits in an electronic engineering setting when compared with a more traditional didactic method.