LITE Masterclass: Problem-based learning and student diversity

PROBLEM-BASED learning and student diversity will be the focus of the next LITE Masterclass - with a follow up drop in Q&A session.

Both sessions will be led by Dr Patrick Bijsmans, Assistant Professor in European Studies at Maastricht University, who will talk about the development and opportunities of problem-based learning (PBL) in the context of an increasingly diverse and international student body, and how this relates to staff training.

Dr Bijsmans will also focus on the flexibility that PBL can offer in an ever-changing society.

Masterclass leader: Dr Patrick Bijsmans.

And he will also be available to discuss the subject further as well as others aspects of his pedagogic work, as part of an extra drop in Q&A session the following day - Tuesday October 1, between 14:00 and 16:00 in the meeting room at the Leeds Institute for Teaching Excellence, 18 Beech Grove Terrace, University of Leeds.

Dr Bijsmans, said:

"When it comes to forms of active learning, PBL is often mentioned as one of the older, more developed teaching and learning models.

"PBL was first developed at McMaster University in Canada in the 1960s and was then further developed at other institutions, including Maastricht University in the Netherlands.

Learning is student-centred and takes place in a collaborative environment. It revolves around problems that form the starting point for contextual and constructive learning.

"I very much look to exploring this subject further  as part of my Masterclass and drop in session."

The Institute, nearly into its third year, provides funding, time and support for current and future student education leaders to develop their profile at the University of Leeds and to carry out research and innovation projects with internal and external impact.

Dr Bijsmans has recently published on the importance of attendance in a problem-based learning (PBL) environment (Higher Education, volume 76, issue 5), as well as on skills acquisition in problem-based learning (Journal of Contemporary European Research, volume 15, issue 1).

His current research looks into the role of social support in students’ transition from high school to university, the international classroom in problem-based learning, and teaching and learning European Studies in times of crises.

He is a member of the task force responsible for further developing one of Maastricht University's main research themes, Leaning & Innovation. Together with Afke Groen, he maintains and edits the FASoS Teaching & Learning Blog.

Sign up for Masterclass here.