A Case Study of Using Problem-Based Learning in a University Liberal Arts Classroom : Focusing on a music appreciation-based class

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of students' self-directed learning, creative problem solving, and critical thinking skills through the use of PBL in a university liberal arts music appreciation-based class to improve learning efficiency. The subjects of the study are 66 male and female undergraduate students participating in the course ‘Theory and Appreciation of Music’ at a four-year B university in Region A in Korea. The class was run as a PBL for 10 weeks with theoretical knowledge of each period and genre along with related music listening activities. The research method used the SPSS program to conduct pre-post t-tests, the analysis of individual and team evaluations, and qualitative data analysis using reflection journals. First, the results showed significant effects on self-directed learning, creative problem solving, and critical thinking skills through PBL-applied music appreciation-based liberal arts classes. Second, the analysis of the reflection journals revealed the expression of creative thinking and the positive meaning of empathetic communication, the benefits of developing self-directed learning and problem-solving skills, the effectiveness of team-based cooperative learning, and the expectations of future learning design and community activities. Therefore, this study demonstrates that PBL is an appropriate teaching and learning method for university students' liberal arts music classes. Thus, it is necessary for instructors to design and operate differentiated classes centered on learners to promote learning motivation and participation and to improve the students' overall level of satisfaction. In addition, the assignment of PBL topics and tasks that apply to real life is emphasized to encourage non-music majors to reflect deeply from the perspective of new thinking. Finally, as a result of this study, we suggest that instructors improve upon their learning assessment methods and that they conduct continuous research on innovative teaching methods using PBL.