Problem-based Learning Strategies that Contributed to Elementary Students' Skills Development and Profile of a Virginia Graduate's Expectations

Abstract

Key strategies of Problem-based learning (PBL) can contribute to students' skills development of the Profile of a Virginia Graduate's expectations of critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, and citizenship (the 5 C's). PBL is a popular trend in public education. It is generally defined as a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working collaboratively to investigate and respond to authentic and engaging open-ended questions and/or problems. This study explored the strategies teachers used when implementing PBL and what strategies aided in the skills development of the 5 C's. The research question addressed was, What key strategies of PBL instruction contributed to the development of the Profile of a Virginia Graduate's expectations of critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, and citizenship for fourth and fifth grade students at one elementary school in Virginia? Through a basic qualitative study, information was gathered on the strategies used in PBL instruction in elementary classrooms to develop students' 5 C's. Findings suggest that small group work, student-centered learning, student choice, peer-to-peer relationships, and modeling were strategies used in PBL instruction to develop the 5 C's. Participants were interviewed by a substitute researcher. Because of the researcher's role as principal of the school in which this research is being conducted, anonymity was used to protect the employer/employee relationship and reduce researcher bias. Results were analyzed using a data analysis process to identify key strategies used in PBL instruction that increase the 5 C's. Perceptions of the participants provided a better understanding of the strategies used during PBL implementation and skills development of the 5 C's. Findings suggest that participants felt PBL to be a successful instructional tool for elementary students. It increased engagement and increased skills development of the 5 C's. The information gained should support leaders in the implementation of PBL in elementary classrooms.