Revista Electronic@ Educare (Sep 2014)
The Use of a Hybrid Strategy Combining Problem-based Learning and Magisterial Lectures to Enhance Learning
Abstract
This paper addresses the problem of capturing the attention of intermediate level students in the Thermodynamics 1 course from the Mechanical and Agricultural Engineering Program, with the purpose of helping students improve their learning process. A hybrid teaching strategy was proposed based on Problem-based Learning (PBL) principles combined with magisterial lectures. Digital and traditional didactic resources were also used in order to find the best mean to minimize the lack of attention in learners. The strategy was developed by sensitizing students to get involved in their formation process. PowerPoint presentations, video clips, the traditional white board and an ultra slim digital tablet board were used to develop the theoretical issues and present the solutions to the problems chosen for the PBL strategy. Finally, the strategy was evaluated and results were analyzed, indicating that using a hybrid strategy combining PBL and traditional magisterial lectures is an optimal resource to improve the learning process of students taking Thermodynamics 1. In addition, it was also concluded that the ultra slim digital tablet board is the optimal didactic resource.
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