The Importance of Efficiency in Active Learning

Abstract

This study involves the factors that can be used to increase the efficiency of problem-based learning (PBL) and the importance of efficiency in PBL since it has commonly positive influences on
learning and student attitudes. Recently, some universities in Turkey have begun to use this method. A literature review about the factors that affect learning in PBL classrooms has been carried out for the purpose of increasing its efficiency in teaching introductory physics and to see its positive influences on students’ social skills and learning process. The following arguments were determined as possible factors that may positively affect the active learning process; i) forming small learning groups in PBL classrooms (instead of a single group), ii) integrating related disciplines at a sufficient level wherever appropriate in PBL modules, and iii) at every stage of the application of PBL, reviewing expectations from facilitators, instructors, teaching assistants (TAs), and other staff in PBL and reorganizing them if necessary.