Informatics Education Enhanced by Problem-Based Learning Model via E-Learning

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.