Problem based learning in Engineering Education at Malaysian polytechnics: A proposal

Abstract

Today graduate need to be self directed and possess lifelong learning skills. They need to be creative, critical thinkers, problem solvers and analytical in their approach. In present teaching scenario, polytechnics are still practicing the traditional approach in classroom such as pen-and-paper or exam-based learning. Students can no longer survive by memorizing textbooks, they now need to explore and experience genuine tasks that connects to the real-world; in which they can develop, master, and demonstrate authentic skills. Engineering Education needs to move from an instructive to constructivist approach. Problem based learning (PBL) is one of the constructivist approaches where cooperation among learners plays important role in the learning method. Project is one of the core subjects in Polytechnic system which carrying 2.5 credit hours. Students will be assessed based on their performance throughout the projects as well as the final outcome of the projects. Generally, most of this final projects designed by students are lack of creative and innovative except a few only. This approach differs in certain aspects from conventional learning. In normal conventional classes, students normally learned based on what the lecturers delivered in class. This study compares the learning and study strategies of project course by using PBL and traditional approach between two groups of the students of the Department of Electrical Engineering in Polytechnic Port Dickson. The research proposed the cognitive constructive learning model (ADDIE) in Problem Oriented Project Based to study to what extend does PBL improve the performance of students project with respect to the conventional method of learning. On the others hand, this study also research into whether PBL approaches creativity, criticality and team working among polytechnic's students.