Challenges of distance education: How to manage the pedagogical process of project-based learning

Abstract

ABSTRACT The article addresses the challenges of distance education, i.e. how to manage the pedagogical process of project-based learning (PBL). The research objective was to use PBL as a teaching method where students learn by actively participating in a real professional task – preparing antenatal classes for future parents. We were also interested in developing recommendations for teachers and organisations using PBL in distance education. The study was conducted as mixed-methods research, using qualitative and quantitative data. Forty-four students and 131 future parents participated in the study. Results showed the importance of managing the PBL: learning environment, teamwork, mentoring and the use of information technologies and tools for learning purposes with appropriate didactic and learning strategies. The pedagogical process of PBL in distance education is based on interactive modelling of ICT and virtual reality with didactically integrating professional knowledge and skills in the virtual pedagogical process.